Electricity Interrupted due to severe weather

Electricity distribution networks worldwide - in common with buildings and other structures - can suffer damage from storms, especially if trees fall across the lines.

Whenever severe weather is forecast all ESB Networks crews are mobilised in the affected areas to be ready to restore electricity service as quickly as it is safe to do so. In severe storms it may not be safe to attempt repairs until the storm has abated. Access to the damage may also be severely disrupted.

The way in which power is restored is that the main lines must be checked and repaired first. This ensures that there is power to the lower voltage neighbourhood lines and then they can be repaired.

ESB Networks appreciates how vital it is to give you as much information as possible if extreme weather causes a failure in your electricity service.

  • Please listen to national and local radio news broadcasts on your radio, and keep batteries for the radio. If you have a car you could also use the car radio to monitor these broadcasts. ESB Networks tries to update radio stations with information regularly. These stations are very helpful to electricity customers by carrying vital public information.
  • The emergency telephone number for ESB Networks 1850 372 999 is open 24 hours a day at all times. Remember, if there is widespread disruption to the electricity networks This number may be very busy. At such times, a system of automated messages which are specific to your area may be provided.
  • If you have information on fallen lines or poles that present a safety risk please stay on the line. If the automated message indicates ESB Networks is aware of the electricity failure in your area and if you are not reporting a fallen line, please be aware of the need to keep the telephone lines available for other callers who wish to report potentially dangerous situations.
  • If you see a fallen electricity line, please DO NOT APPROACH IT, but do report it immediately to ESB Networks.

Other ways to help:

  • Please keep the Emergency telephone number 1850 372 999 to hand, along with your MPRN number (on your bill). This MPRN number helps to identify the exact network serving you. Do not call any other ESB telephone number as the emergency numbers are the only ones that can give you up-to-date information and will have the automated messages relevant to your area.
  • If you have special needs because of infirmity or restricted mobility, or if you use electrical home medical equipment, please make sure that you are registered on the Medical Register. Please contact your supplier to ensure you are on their medical register.
  • If you have elderly neighbours, please check that they are OK.
  • Please be very careful if you are using candles or an open fire.

If your electricity fails, switch off all appliances EXCEPT your fridge and freezer and one light. Avoid opening the freezer. Regard the electrical wiring, indoors and outside, as LIVE at all times. DO NOT touch or approach fallen wires.

ESB Networks may occasionally need, for safety reasons, to temporarily switch out the electricity service again after it has been restored to your home, in order to safely reconnect other customers.