Status orange weather warning remains in place today

A status orange weather warning remains in place for Donegal as Storm Eleanor makes her departure from Ireland.

Over 1000 homes were without power in Inishowen for a number of hours yesterday evening as strong gales and heavy rain swept the peninsula, however power has since been restored. Some 36 homes in Kilcar, 13 in Glenties and 60 in Creeslough are still without power this morning.

Two fire tenders attended a number of serious incidents of flooding in Carndonagh and Burnfoot last night, however it is understood waters have since receded. Meanwhile, parts of Glenwood estate, Letterkenny were hit with flooding again following last night’s down pour.

A spokesperson from Met Eireann urged motorists to remain vigilant with respect to the possibility of flooding and debris on roads this morning.

“Stay up to date with local authority and national warnings and assess your surroundings prior to departure on any journeys while storm conditions pass through,” they added.

“A combination of high tides and exceptionally high seas will result in coastal damage and further flooding. Sunny spells and squally heavy thundery downpours occurring too, with the risk of local surface flooding inland. Winds will moderate through the afternoon and evening. Highest temperatures of 7 to 10 degrees Celsius.”

Minister Joe McHugh paid tribute to the fire service and ESB networks last night for their work across Donegal and urged motorists to take care on the roads today.

“Donegal has escaped the worst of tonight’s storm thankfully,” he said.

“I want to pay tribute to all the fire crews and ESB crews for their work this evening here in the County. However there remain seriously difficult driving conditions across Donegal with localised flooding on many roads, so if you have to be out, please drive carefully and please slow down. There will be high tides again in the morning so stay away from piers etc.”

ESB Networks have apologised to customers and are reminding the public 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.

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