Christina McHugh: As Storm Éowyn swept in, I prayed that the roof would remain on the house

A tree uprooted beside Roscommon Arts Centre after Storm Éowyn. Picture: Gerard O'Loughlin

I’m not sure who it was that said “it is better to light a candle than curse the darkness”, but I can tell you I have been cursing the darkness as well as lighting a myriad of candles over the past week, with the only signs of light visible being those coming through the gaping holes where forestry once stood.

Where I live, near Castlerea in Co Roscommon, we’re into day eight as I write this without power, and up to a few minutes ago, without water.