ESB Networks are working to restore power to 140,000 homes, farms and businesses left without power as Storm Ali wreaks havoc across the country. The electricity provider issued a statement on Wednesday morning, saying that their crews were working on restoring power to affected businesses.
A spokesperson said: "Gale force winds from Storm Ali with gusts of over 140 km/h have caused damaged to the electricity network affecting more than 140,000 homes, farms and businesses."The damage is mainly attributable to fallen trees on overhead lines as a result of the high winds."ESB Networks crews have been dispatched to the most affected areas, making the electricity network safe and assessing the damage, so that they can restore power as quickly and effectively as possible."Storm Ali is currently active in the west coast of the country with gale-force winds and gusts of up to 120 km/h per hour."The areas most impacted include: Cavan, Sligo, Galway, Thurles, Castlebar, Tralee, Portlaoise, Mullingar, Dundalk, ESB Networks apologises for any inconvenience caused.ESB Networks has mobilised repair crews who are currently working in very difficult conditions to restore power as quickly as possible to affected customers, once it is safe to do so."Real-time information on power outages and restoration times is available on the PowerCheck App or www.esbpowercheck.ie.They also warned the public of the dangers posed by fallen wires.
ESB Networks have issued the following precautionary measures to take in the event of a power cut: Stay Safe, Stay Clear: Never approach broken lines or damaged poles, and keep children and animals away report the damage to ESB Networks at 1850 372 999 and listen to recorded messages carefully turn off electric cookers, ovens, irons, etc. if electricity supply is lost Leave a light switched on so you know when power has been restored take extra care if using candles, oil lamps or other naked flames test smoke alarms with fresh batteries ensure adequate ventilation if using gas heaters. There are currently two warnings in place - one Yellow and one Orange, Met Eireann's second-highest.