Storms have long shaped Ireland’s rugged coastline, bringing powerful winds and heavy rain.
Over the years, the country has experienced severe weather events, but few have matched the intensity of Storm Eowyn.
This latest storm has set records, caused massive power outages, and disrupted daily life across the region.
On Friday morning, more than 500,000 homes in Ireland were left without electricity as Storm Eowyn brought extreme winds, with gusts reaching 183 km/h (114 mph).
New National Record
This set a new national record, surpassing the previous high recorded in 1945.
The strongest winds were measured near Galway, on the country’s west coast, according to Digi24.
Authorities placed Ireland under a red weather alert, warning residents to stay indoors.
Similar warnings were issued for Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland, where the storm was expected to continue its path.
The Irish meteorological agency, Met Éireann, also reported that sustained wind speeds reached 135 km/h (84 mph), which is classified as hurricane-force.
The extreme weather caused major travel disruptions. Airports in Dublin, Cork, and Shannon canceled flights, with over 100 departures and arrivals affected in Dublin alone.
Roads and rail services were also impacted, with fallen trees and debris making travel dangerous.
In Northern Ireland, more than 93,000 households lost power.
Officials described the damage to the electrical grid as severe and unprecedented.
The region’s First Minister, Michelle O'Neill, urged people to stay safe and avoid unnecessary travel, calling the situation extremely dangerous.
Schools were closed, and public transportation was suspended for the day.
The storm is now moving toward Scotland, where red weather warnings remain in place. Meteorologists predict further disruptions as the system continues across the United Kingdom.
Emergency crews are working to restore power and clear roads, but officials warn that full recovery could take days.
