Storm Boelo Triggers Power Outages and Travel Disruptions Across Ireland

Storm Boelo lashed Ireland with violent winds and heavy rain on Saturday and Sunday, leaving tens of thousands of homes without power and disrupting travel networks nationwide.

ESB Networks reported that about 18,000 customers remained without electricity on Sunday afternoon after gusts reached 133 km/h at Malin Head in County Donegal.

Met Éireann issued Status Orange wind warnings for several counties in the west and northwest, while a Status Red marine warning cautioned of violent storm force 11 winds.

The severe weather forced airlines to cancel flights at Dublin Airport and Belfast City Airport, and led to numerous ferry cancellations across the Irish Sea.

Organisers of the Dublin City Marathon proceeded with preparations as about 22,000 runners prepared to take part under a wind warning.

Local authorities and event organisers also cancelled Halloween festivals and public gatherings, including the Lú Festival of Light in Drogheda, due to safety concerns.

County Donegal urged residents to avoid non-essential travel after fallen trees blocked roads and surface flooding affected multiple areas.

Charles Ward, a TD for the 100% Redress Party, said plaster had flown off walls and blocks had collapsed in properties affected by defective concrete.

Keith Leonard, head of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management, urged coastal communities to remain cautious.

“We will continue to see strong onshore winds, high tides, surge and large waves,” said Leonard.

Met Éireann meteorologist Niall Donlan warned that saturated ground in west Cork and Kerry created a heightened risk of flooding.

“It is recommended, if you’re going to the coast or living in and around the coast, to be careful and if you can, stay away,” said Donlan.

Further weather warnings for wind and rain were issued on Sunday for Monday and Tuesday as stormy conditions were forecast to persist.