More than 15,000 homes in County Donegal are without electricity tonight as a severe thunderstorm front moves across the region. According to ESB Networks, the outages are widespread, with significant clusters reported in west Donegal, Milford, and Creeslough. Met Éireann has issued a status yellow thunderstorm warning that remains in effect until 6:00 p.m. on Friday.
Did You Know? Donegal County Council has warned that the current storm front is capable of producing hailstones reaching up to 5cm in size, alongside potential flash flooding and severe lightning strikes.
Where are the power outages located?
The ESB reports that west Donegal is the most heavily impacted area, with approximately 5,000 customers currently in the dark across the Gaoth Dobhair and Falcarragh regions. Other significant outages include 2,782 customers in the Milford area and 2,257 in Creeslough.
Additional reports confirm that over 1,500 properties are affected in the south-west of the county, specifically in Killybegs, Kilcar, and Glencolmcille. Smaller outages are also recorded, including 800 properties in Glenties and Ardara, over 500 in Letterkenny, over 100 in the Finn Valley, and 66 in the Bundoran area. The ESB states that crews are currently working to repair these faults as quickly as possible.
What are the primary safety concerns?
Met Éireann has cautioned that the storms bring risks of torrential downpours, lightning damage, and gusty winds. Donegal County Council has activated its Severe Weather Assessment Team to monitor the situation, noting that the storm front is highly unpredictable. The council maintains a supply of pre-filled sandbags at various locations to address potential urban flooding.
ESB Networks is urging the public to exercise extreme caution regarding fallen live wires. The utility company advises that residents must stay away from any downed cables and report them immediately by calling 1800 372 999. Residents can track real-time restoration progress via the official PowerCheck website.
What may happen next?
The status yellow warning remains in place until Friday evening, meaning further disruptions are possible as the front moves through. If the weather conditions persist as forecasted, additional localized flooding and hazardous driving conditions may impact road users, particularly cyclists and pedestrians.
Authorities have advised festival and event organizers to ensure that all temporary structures are secured against high winds. Furthermore, individuals camping or caravanning in the county are encouraged to seek sheltered locations away from exposed hillsides or cliffs until the weather stabilizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check when my power will be restored?
The ESB advises the public to monitor www.PowerCheck.ie for the most up-to-date information on power restoration times.
What should I do if I see a fallen power line?
Do not approach the wires. ESB Networks advises the public and emergency services to stay away from fallen cables and report the location immediately to the ESB emergency line at 1800 372 999.
Are there resources available for flooding?
Yes, Donegal County Council maintains a large stock of pre-filled sandbags at numerous locations across the county and is prepared to respond to flooding events in urban areas as they arise.
How are you and your neighbors managing with the current power outages in your area?
