Thousands without power in Clare as Storm Debi batters the country

MORE than 2,000 of homes and businesses in County Clare are without electricity this Monday morning following the arrival of Storm Debi overnight.

A status red wind warning for Clare has now been lifted but a status orange warning remains in place until 10am.

Most public transport services will not operate until after 10am and schools will also remain closed until the status orange warning has been lifted.

According to ESB Networks the largest power outages in Clare occurred between 4am and 5am as Storm Debi made its way over the county. More than 800 customers are without power in the Tulla area, nearly 700 in Doolin and 350 close to Ballyvaughan.

Power has been restored in the Kilrush area following a significant outage there around 6am which impacted more than 1,200 customers.

In general, winds are easing across County Clare but motorists are being urged to exercise caution as there are reports of debris and fallen trees on some roads.

Both Clare County Council and gardai say the impact of Storm Debi does not appear to have been as bad as was feared.