merrion street

Following the arrival of storm Callum overnight, Eoghan Murphy, Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government convened a meeting of the National Emergency Coordination Group (NECG) at 10am today, Thursday 12 October 2018 to review its impact and to coordinate any necessary response.

The Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government’s National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) severe weather team has been working overnight and this morning with Met Éireann and OPW to monitor and track the evolving storm Callum. The NDFEM has also been in contact with Local Coordination Centres in all areas this morning to get an overview of the storm’s impact.

Key points

Storm Callum tracked as forecast by Met Éireann with the worst of the storm affecting the west coast and fortunately did not hit in all areas as hard as it could have, resulting in minimal disruption.

Thanks to preparations by all agencies involved, coastal areas were protected from certain flooding. Galway in particular was protected by the aqua dam put in place. Assistance was also provided by the Defence forces and the Civil Defence through, amongst other things, filling of sandbags.

ESB Networks reports some disruption to electricity supply nationally, with approximately 60,000 households without power at one point. ESB Networks is actively working to restore power to those affected as well as evaluating all faults and responding to emerging power outages. Powercheck.ie will be updated with restoration times as soon as possible.

Some disruption has been reported to transport infrastructure. Work is ongoing to resolve outstanding issues.

Met Éireann’s ORANGE weather warning remains in place in parts of the country, particularly along the west coast and people in these areas are advised to continue to take account of the key Public Safety & Information Messages.
Key Public Safety & Information Messages

• Be aware of local conditions in your area; weather conditions and their impacts can vary significantly from place to place. 
• Even though the worst of the storm has passed, people should stay away from coastal areas for the duration of the ORANGE warning. 
• If you need to drive, slow down and drive to anticipate strong cross winds and other hazards such as falling/fallen trees. Do not drive through flooded areas. High-sided vehicles and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to strong winds – slow down and give extra space to pedestrians and cyclists. 
• Stay away from fallen electricity wires or fallen trees as they may be in contact with electricity wires. Always treat any fallen wires as live. ESB Networks Emergency Services can be contacted at 1850 372999.

While the NECG has been stood down following this morning’s meeting, the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management will continue to monitor the situation.