Ireland is grappling with the aftermath of Storm Boelo as it issues Status Yellow weather warnings for 11 counties. The storm has left around 5,000 homes and businesses, predominantly in the northwest, without power. This figure marks a significant decrease from the approximately 41,000 outages reported earlier. ESB Networks has been working diligently to restore electricity, though some areas may remain without power overnight.
The adverse weather conditions have also impacted travel, with Dublin Airport seeing 30 flight cancellations due to strong winds in Ireland and adverse conditions elsewhere. Authorities have warned travelers to prepare for possible further delays and cancellations.
The Status Yellow wind warning is set to affect counties including Carlow, Clare, Cork, Donegal, Galway, Kerry, Kilkenny, Mayo, Waterford, Wexford, and Wicklow from 5 p.m. on Monday until just before midnight. The warnings highlight the potential for difficult travel conditions and the risk of fallen trees or branches.
In addition to wind warnings, rain alerts have been issued for parts of Cork, Kerry, Galway, and Mayo. Heavy rainfall is expected, raising concerns over localized flooding, particularly in western and southwestern regions where the ground is already saturated and river levels are elevated.
Emergency management officials continue to focus recovery efforts, particularly in the northwest, where Donegal has reported numerous fallen trees, road debris, and damaged electricity lines. Leitrim, which also experienced fallen trees, appears to have avoided major damage.
While meteorologists have noted that the incoming weather system does not meet the criteria for a named storm, they caution that additional rain and strong winds could exacerbate conditions in areas already affected by recent storms. Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution while traveling and to report any fallen or damaged electricity wires to ESB Networks.