Roads remain blocked and thousands without power around County Roscommon as Storm Éowyn leaves its mark
A free blocking the relief road between Boyle and the N4 beside Abbey Park GAA grounds. Picture: Shirley Cunningham Cooke
Primary and secondary roads around the county remain blocked by fallen trees and wires as authorities grapple with the full extent of the damage caused by Storm Éowyn.
Although a danger-to-life Status Red wind warning has expired since 11 a.m. on Friday morning, the county remained under a Status Orange warning until 4 p.m..
There are reports of numerous fallen trees, while up to 10,000 homes and businesses across the county are without electricity.
It could be days before power in some rural parts of the county is restored, says the ESB.
Conditions are particularly bad around Castlerea and Boyle with many roads in and out of both towns blocked or partially blocked.
The following roads around Castlerea are currently blocked or impassable: Castlerea to Ballymoe; Castlerea to Castleplunkett; Castlerea to Ballintubber via Knockroe; Castlerea to Loughglynn; Ballinagare to Frenchpark road.
The N61 between Athlone and Roscommon Town is also particularly challenging, with reports of trees partially blocking the road in some locations. Motorists are being advised to exercise caution on the route.
A number of buildings around the county have also suffered damage, including the roof of St. Joseph's Church, Boyle.
SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen, confirmed that it would not be opening until further notice because of damage caused by the storm.
A number of events scheduled to take place around the county this evening have been deferred or cancelled.
In a statement this afternoon, Roscommon County Council said "Roscommon County Council advises members of the public to remain indoors as Storm Éowyn persists. Trees are down in a number of locations and Council staff will be responding to issues as soon as it's safe to do so. Please stay safe and adhere to all public safety messaging."
