Thousands Left Without Power After Severe Storms Hit Northern Irelandthunderstorms in ireland

Severe thunderstorms and powerful wind storms have wreaked havoc across Northern Ireland and Ireland, leaving tens of thousands of homes without electricity. The damage has been widespread, with downed trees, snapped power lines, and severe disruption to daily life and transport infrastructure.

The outage numbers are staggering. In Northern Ireland alone, approximately 50,000 properties have been affected. Alongside them, many areas in the Republic of Ireland saw far more: well over 180,000 homes and businesses lost power, especially during the height of the storm.

Fueling the destruction were record-setting wind gusts, reaching up to 100 mph in some places. Severe weather warnings, including amber and red alerts, were issued as the storm battered coastlines and exposed regions.

Restoration efforts are underway, but authorities warn that full recovery will take time. Crews are stretched thin trying to reach remote locations, repair damaged lines, and safely clear fallen debris.

In addition to the power failures, critical services, travel, and infrastructure have been severely impacted. Train lines and air travel have been disrupted; roads are blocked. Schools closed in some counties while communities are coping with the sudden blackout and interrupted water supply.

The storm has also claimed at least one life. In County Donegal, a man died in a weather-related incident, adding tragic human consequences to the damage.