Storm Bert Leaves 60,000 Homes Without Power, Causes Floods And Airport Chaos

60,000 Homes, Farms And Businesses Affected by Power Outages

Storm Bert has left a trail of disruption across Ireland, with around 60,000 power cuts reported as high winds and heavy rainfall battered the country on Friday night. The Electricity Supply Board (ESB) confirmed widespread outages, particularly affecting counties including Donegal, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Cavan, Monaghan, Kerry, and Cork. Crews are working to restore power where safe to do so, although more outages are expected, and the public has been warned to avoid fallen wires.

Flooding has also been a major issue, with several regions experiencing severe conditions. Status red rain warnings were issued for Cork and Galway, while other areas, including Waterford, Kerry, Clare, Mayo, Sligo, and Leitrim, were placed under orange alerts for 10 hours. A yellow alert for wind and rain is in place for most counties until midday on Saturday, with snow and ice warnings specifically affecting County Donegal.

In Cork, images circulating online showed the River Feale bursting its banks, while flooding was reported in Killybegs, Donegal, and Galway. Authorities expect more flooding and gusty winds throughout Saturday, although conditions are set to ease by mid-afternoon before further heavy rain arrives from the west.

Disruptions at Airports and Roads

Airports in Northern Ireland and the UK are also feeling the impact of the storm. Newcastle International Airport reported significant disruptions, with several flights delayed or diverted to other locations. The 9:30 a.m. British Airways flight to Heathrow was canceled, while other flights were rerouted to Belfast and Edinburgh. Despite the disruptions, the airport’s snow teams are working hard to minimize further delays.

Leeds Bradford Airport also faced delays, with its runway expected to reopen at 10 a.m. following overnight snowfall, although its terminal continued to operate normally.

In Northern Ireland, authorities issued yellow warnings for rain and snow, with hazardous driving conditions reported, particularly around Newtownards. Police warned motorists to be cautious, especially in areas like Belfast Road, Springvale Road, and Dungiven, where fallen trees and blown-off roofs caused obstructions. Heavy traffic buildup was also reported in Coleraine due to snow.

As Storm Bert continues to affect the region, authorities are advising the public to stay alert and follow weather updates to avoid further disruptions.