As Ireland grapples with the aftermath of Storm Isha, a staggering 57,000 homes, farms, and businesses remain without power, setting the stage for more challenges as the country braces for the arrival of Storm Jocelyn. The relentless onslaught of storms has left communities vulnerable, with concerns rising about the potential impact on structures already battered by the previous weather event.

ESB Networks, responsible for power restoration, has made significant progress in restoring electricity to over 178,000 premises since the peak outages of more than 235,000 during Storm Isha. However, the bulk of the remaining outages is concentrated in the northwest, where the impact has been most severe.

ESB Networks’ senior engineer, Brian Tapley, expressed the difficulty in restoring power amidst the impending storm. He stressed the likelihood of new outages during Storm Jocelyn, and the worst-affected areas—Donegal, Mayo, Leitrim, Cavan, and Sligo—remain a priority for restoration efforts.

The aftermath of Storm Isha is visible, with the Dark Hedges in Co Antrim witnessing damage to several trees. Authorities urge the public to exercise caution, treating fallen trees and structures as potentially live, emphasizing safety as the cleanup continues.

Director of Roads and Transportation at Donegal County Council, Bryan Cannon, highlighted the ongoing cleanup efforts, ensuring main roads are open, though some back roads may still need clearance. Landowners are advised to inspect their property for potential falling trees and take preemptive action ahead of Storm Jocelyn.

To compound concerns, two additional Status Orange wind warnings are in place for Donegal, Mayo, and Galway, starting from 18.00. Met Éireann warns of difficult travel conditions, coastal wave overtopping, and the risk of fallen trees, further amplifying the challenges faced by communities already grappling with the aftermath of Storm Isha.