Thousands without power overnight as Storm Barney damages parts of ESB network

Thousands were without power overnight, as adverse weather conditions damaged parts of the ESB network.

ESB Networks has said around 25,000 customers could be without power until around 6pm this evening.

The areas worst affected by the power cuts include Portlaoise, Kilkenny, Ennis, Athlone, Naas, Wicklow, North Wexford, Tullamore, Mullingar and Celbridge.

Yesterday, Storm Barney swept across the country, with gale force winds and gusts of up to 125 kilometres per hour.

Bernadine Maloney of ESB Networks has advised for affected customers to switch off appliances.

"At home, turn off electric cookers, ovens and irons, leave a light switched on so you know when the power has been restored, and take extra care if using candles, oil lamps or other naked flames," Ms Maloney said.

"This is a good time to call on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, we apologise again for the impact this storm has had on all our customers."