
Red Wind Warning Now Includes Waterford
Storm Éowyn: One of the Severest Storms Ireland Has Ever Seen
Updated: Wednesday, 22 January 2025 | 20:34
Storm Éowyn is set to make history as one of the most severe storms Ireland has ever experienced. With the entire country under a Status Red wind warning, authorities are urging everyone to take extreme precautions. Here’s what you need to know about this unprecedented weather event and how to stay safe.
What to Expect from Storm Éowyn
The storm is expected to bring:
- Extremely strong winds: Gusts of up to 130km/h, with even stronger winds possible in coastal and hilly areas.
- Widespread power outages: The number of affected households could surpass the 385,000 recorded during Storm Ophelia in 2017.
- Transport disruption: Roads may be blocked by debris and fallen trees, making travel extremely hazardous.
- Coastal flooding: Wave overtopping and flooding are likely in low-lying and exposed areas.
Status Red Warning: What It Means
A Status Red wind warning has been issued for the entire country, with varying timings depending on the region:
- Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, and Waterford: 2am to 10am Friday.
- Clare and Galway: 3am to midday Friday.
- Leitrim, Mayo, and Sligo: 4am to midday Friday.
- Cavan, Monaghan, Dublin, Kildare, Laois, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wicklow, Roscommon, and Tipperary: 6am to midday Friday.
- Donegal: 6am to 3pm Friday.
Residents in these areas are advised to shelter in place and avoid all unnecessary travel. Schools will be closed, and people are encouraged to work from home if possible.
Key Safety Advice
- Stay Indoors: The safest place during the storm is indoors. Avoid coastal areas and heed the Irish Coast Guard’s advice to “Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry.”
- Prepare for Power Outages: Charge your devices, have torches and batteries ready, and ensure you have enough food and water.
- Avoid Travel: Roads will be dangerous, with debris and fallen trees likely. If you must travel, do so before the warning comes into effect and stay put until it’s lifted.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure anything that could be blown away or cause damage.
What’s Next?
The storm is expected to pass by Friday afternoon, but the aftermath will require significant clean-up efforts. Local authorities, ESB, and civil defence teams are already preparing for the task ahead.
A Local Perspective
Here in Waterford, we’re no strangers to wild weather, but Storm Éowyn is shaping up to be something else entirely. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s crucial to take this storm seriously. Drop into your local shop for essentials, check on your neighbours, and stay tuned to updates from Met Éireann and local authorities.
Remember: This is a time to look out for one another. Stay safe, stay indoors, and let’s weather this storm together.
From all of us at Waterford.fyi – your local guide to what’s happening in our city.