100,000 homes could be left without power for two weeks as a result of Storm Éowyn

As of 12 noon, January 26, ESB Networks has restored supply to 438,000 homes, farms and businesses. It is understood that 330,000 customers remain without supply, down from a peak of 768,000 on early Friday morning following the unprecedented impact of Storm Éowyn.  

In the past 24 hours, ESB Networks has published estimated restore times for most of its faults on www.PowerCheck.ie, which are now the most accurate indications from the network based on fault site assessments of when customers can expect to have their power restored.   

It is anticipated that the vast majority of customers who lost power during Storm Éowyn will have their supply restored by Friday night, January 31. However, for the remaining customers, these will progressively have power restored over the course of the following week. This could be as many as 100,000 customers. 

READ MORE: As Ireland rides out Storm Herminia the week ahead does bring some hope

Crews have continued to work in difficult conditions through Storm Herminia today and while this storm hasn’t caused significant damage to the network, ESB said it is "hampering" power restoration efforts in places. Power restoration efforts will remain dynamic and weather conditions may impact on the restoration work.   

ESB said: "We are engaged with utilities across Europe and we expect support to arrive from the GB in coming days. In addition, ESB Networks crews from the south of the country and Dublin are being deployed across worse impacted areas, while skilled retirees from ESB Networks are also being redrafted to help."

The network has advised customers to sign up for ESB's "Keep Me Notified" service for power outages or www.PowerCheck.ie to receive status updates directly. To sign up you must enter your eircode and the mobile number associated with your account.   

ESB Networks have also been made aware of scam text messages purporting to come from them and they urge customers to not engage directly and to not share any personal information if asked. Customers must block and report the suspicious number if necessary.  

ESB have issued an important Public Safety Message this afternoon, they said: "We have been made aware of several instances of potentially very dangerous incidents where members of the public have unknowingly approached fallen electricity infrastructure.

"Fallen debris after a storm can prevent people from seeing hidden risks such as wires entangled into trees and branches. If you come across fallen wires or damaged electricity network, never, ever touch or approach these as they are LIVE and extremely dangerous. Please report any damage to electricity infrastructure by calling 1800 372 999. "

ESB Networks concluded: "It is important that any impacted customers who use electrically powered medical devices contact their healthcare professional to make alternative arrangements if necessary.  

"We acknowledge the disruption to family and commercial life this causes and thank customers across the country who remain without power for their patience as our crews work to safely restore power. "