Laois County Council have issued a new statement in relation to the ongoing situation across the county amid Storm Éowyn.
It was reported earlier this morning that Council crews would be mobilising from 11am in an attempt to clear up some of the damage.
Met Eireann ended the Status Red warning in Laois from 11am and a Status Orange is now in place for large parts of the country.
Roads Update
The N80 from Stradbally to Portlaoise is now open, but other blockages remain on the N80.
The N80 from Mountmellick to Portlaoise remains open following the clearance of some debris.
A large tree is down near Garryhinch on the Mountmellick side, however, the R423 between Mountmellick and Portarlington remains open.
“We are strongly advising the public not to make unnecessary journeys,” a representative from Laois County Council said.
“Aside from the dangers of fallen trees, power cables and telecoms infrastructure, there will be a lot of debris on roads and footpaths.
There will be multiple hazards on streets, roads and footpaths and the public is asked to report any incidents to the Council’s Emergency Hotline Number 1800 832010.
“Emergency calls should be directed to 999 or 112, in the normal way.”
Power Update
The ESB, meanwhile, are reporting that over 800,000 homes and businesses across Ireland are without power.
ESB called the number “unprecedented,” as it is approximately double the number that were without power during storm Darragh.
Some parts of Laois have seen their power return throughout the afternoon, but many must remain waiting.
The ESB are warning that some homes and businesses will be without power “for a week.”
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