Storm Bram Knocks Out Power to 54,000 as Travel Chaos Ensues

UPDATE: Over 54,000 homes and businesses are currently without power as Storm Bram wreaks havoc across Ireland. Although rail services have been fully restored, the aftermath of the storm has left significant travel disruptions in its wake.

Just four counties remain under a weather warning, as Met Éireann has downgraded alerts for all but Donegal. The storm’s intensity is still causing widespread power outages, with over 40,000 properties affected, primarily in the South and East. However, as Storm Bram tracks northward, this number is expected to rise.

Drivers are being warned of dangerous crosswinds during their evening commutes, with gusts reaching up to 119 km/h recorded at Sherkin Island just after 1 PM. In Wicklow, businesses are scrambling for sandbags as the Leitrim River rises to dangerous levels, and the scene is echoed in Waterford, where floodwaters have inundated roads and train stations, forcing the shutdown of Winterval attractions.

As Storm Bram continues to intensify, reports indicate that winds have picked up in the East, with gusts of 96 km/h at Casement. The storm’s impact has led to the cancellation of more than 70 flights at Dublin Airport, adding to the chaos faced by travelers.

Residents in Carlow are bracing for further flooding, with one café owner donning a wetsuit and life jacket as waters creep towards the entrance. Images from the region show rough sea conditions and significant flooding, highlighting the storm’s destructive force.

Officials stress that the strongest winds have yet to hit many areas, urging residents not to let their guard down. Power has been restored to more than half of the homes disconnected during the storm, but the situation remains precarious, particularly for those still without electricity.

As the storm continues to evolve, authorities are closely monitoring conditions. Further updates are expected as communities work to recover from the tumultuous weather event. Stay tuned for the latest developments as Storm Bram’s impact unfolds.