ESB warns of possible storm damage

The ESB Networks map at 5pm on Wednesday showing faults along the west and south east coast

MET Eireann has given ESB Networks advanced weather warning for this evening, Wednesday, and Thursday morning: ‘On Wednesday there may be very strong Southerly winds. It will be very windy and stormy in the evening and night. The risk is along exposed coasts on Wednesday night.’

If these strong winds materialise and cause structural damage there is significant risk of power outages for our customers. Our message at this stage is as follows:-

• · Safety of the Public is our highest priority and customers should NEVER approach or touch fallen or low-hanging wires and powerlines. Please ring 1850 372 999 to report these, keep others away from them and also alert the Gardaí/Emergency Services.
• · ESB Networks have all of our staff on stand-by to be mobilised when and where required and these will be supplemented by partner organisations such as, our sister networks company Northern Ireland Electricity and contractors if required.
• · In the event of damage occurring we will assess the scale of the damage when it is safe to do so and develop a restoration plan based on prioritised power restoration needs.
• · Our website, Twitter and our Powercheck App and local outlets will be kept up-to-date with current information on expected restoration times as the situation evolves and becomes clear.

Customers without power can check for updates on when their fault is expected to be repaired at: www.esbpowercheck.ie, via Twitter at @ESBNetworks or telephone 1850 372 999. Customers should have their MPRN available to access recorded information specific to their location.

ESB Networks is reminding customers of the precautionary measures to take in the event of a power cut:

• never approach broken lines or damaged poles, and keep children and animals away – report 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.

Real time information on power outages and restoration times will be available at:www.esbpowercheck.ie Further information will be available at: http://updatesfromesb.com/