Storm Eowyn swept through Ireland, Scotland, and northern England, leaving vast areas without electricity and disrupting travel as winds reached record speeds.
Storm Eowyn: Devastation Unfolds Across Ireland and Beyond
Storm Eowyn: Devastation Unfolds Across Ireland and Beyond
Power Outages and Travel Disruptions After Storm Eowyn Hits
As Storm Eowyn ravaged Ireland, approximately 715,000 individuals found themselves without power on Friday, marking an unprecedented event in the island nation's weather history. The powerful storm also unleashed record-breaking wind gusts, notably a staggering 114 miles per hour recorded at Mace Head, County Galway, according to the Irish Meteorological Service.
In addition to Ireland, the storm's reach extended into Northern Ireland, southern Scotland, and parts of northern and western England and Wales, where they experienced similar strong winds. Forecasts indicated that gusts could exceed 100 miles per hour in coastal and mountainous areas, raising concerns about safety and travel disruptions.
The ESB Networks reported that nearly one-third of its customer base—which totals around 2.4 million—had lost electricity. The utility company is grappling with the widespread power outages, actively working to restore service as the storm continues its assault on infrastructure.
Those in the path of Eowyn are also warned about anticipated rain showers, which could lead to further complications. The potential for hail and snow in the Scottish hills adds another layer of concern as meteorologists issued warnings about "very dangerous conditions" that would result in significant disruptions.
Travelers faced considerable challenges due to Eowyn; hundreds of flights across Irish and British airports were canceled, and train services were severely impacted. Northern Rail advised against travel over the weekend, urging customers to stay clear of railway services during this perilous weather event.
The storm's intensity correlates with a high-speed jet stream, which has been bolstered to 260 miles per hour this week. This phenomenon has contributed to the extreme weather conditions, making Eowyn the most severe storm to impact Ireland since 2017.
Concerns continue to mount regarding the storm's aftermath, leading authorities and public services to remain alert as they prepare for the ongoing challenges brought forth by Eowyn.
In addition to Ireland, the storm's reach extended into Northern Ireland, southern Scotland, and parts of northern and western England and Wales, where they experienced similar strong winds. Forecasts indicated that gusts could exceed 100 miles per hour in coastal and mountainous areas, raising concerns about safety and travel disruptions.
The ESB Networks reported that nearly one-third of its customer base—which totals around 2.4 million—had lost electricity. The utility company is grappling with the widespread power outages, actively working to restore service as the storm continues its assault on infrastructure.
Those in the path of Eowyn are also warned about anticipated rain showers, which could lead to further complications. The potential for hail and snow in the Scottish hills adds another layer of concern as meteorologists issued warnings about "very dangerous conditions" that would result in significant disruptions.
Travelers faced considerable challenges due to Eowyn; hundreds of flights across Irish and British airports were canceled, and train services were severely impacted. Northern Rail advised against travel over the weekend, urging customers to stay clear of railway services during this perilous weather event.
The storm's intensity correlates with a high-speed jet stream, which has been bolstered to 260 miles per hour this week. This phenomenon has contributed to the extreme weather conditions, making Eowyn the most severe storm to impact Ireland since 2017.
Concerns continue to mount regarding the storm's aftermath, leading authorities and public services to remain alert as they prepare for the ongoing challenges brought forth by Eowyn.