As Storm Eowyn wreaks havoc across Ireland, over 715,000 residents find themselves without electricity, facing one of the most severe storms in recent years.
Storm Eowyn Causes Widespread Power Outages in Ireland
Storm Eowyn Causes Widespread Power Outages in Ireland
Record-breaking winds and severe weather conditions impact travel and power supply in Ireland and beyond.
Heavy winds and challenging weather conditions associated with Storm Eowyn have plunged Ireland into darkness, leaving approximately a third of its electricity customers, around 715,000, without power. The storm, which swept through Ireland, Scotland, and northern England on Friday, recorded wind gusts reaching 114 miles per hour in western Ireland, surpassing the region's previous wind speed records.
The Irish Meteorological Service had forecasted gales throughout Friday, anticipating strong winds would also impact Northern Ireland, southern Scotland, and northern England and Wales. The storm's winds, which reached up to 70 mph in some areas, combined with expected rain showers and possible hail and snow in the hills of Scotland, contributed to dangerous travel conditions.
Significant disruptions were reported across transportation networks, with Northern Rail in England advising passengers to refrain from traveling on Friday and Saturday. Many flights were canceled at airports, including Belfast International Airport, which experienced intermittent power outages. Passengers were urged to check flight statuses with their airlines.
The storm's intensification was attributed to a strong jet stream, which is typically found at altitudes of 190 to 220 mph, but reached speeds of 260 mph during this event, exacerbating the storm's effects.
Meteorological experts deemed Eowyn the most powerful storm to impact Ireland since 2017, which had resulted in fatalities and widespread devastation. As communities begin to assess damage and restore services, the effects of Storm Eowyn are expected to linger in the days ahead.
