Households left without power across Mayo after heavy snowfall

THERE were no serious injuries reported to Gardaí despite heavier-than-expected snowfall leaving Mayo roads in a treacherous state in the past 24 hours. 

Over 2,000 people are currently without power in various parts of Mayo, where ESB workers are currently working to restore faults. 

These include over 1,200 people in Knockaphunta in Castlebar, and over 1,200 people in Swinford. Outages were also reported in Ballaghaderreen, Newport, Westport, Claremorris, Kiltimagh and Ballyhaunis. A power cable also fell in Mulranny, where 26 people are currently without power. 

Several schools in the west Mayo area will be closed today as driving conditions remain very difficult in parts of the county. 

Cars in Westport were abandoned last night (Wednesday, November 20) after heavy snowfall left vehicles unable to leave the town. Heavy snow also fell in Castlebar and in other parts of the county. 

A status yellow snow and ice warning remains in place in Mayo. Temperatures are not forecast to rise higher than 4 degrees in the next 24 hours. However, temperatures are expected to rise into the double digits this weekend across the country. 

^{Paddington Bear covered in snow on The Fairgreen in Westport (Pic: The Mayo News)} 

Services have also been impacted at Mayo University Hospital, who have urged the public not to attend unless it is an emergency. 

“MUH is focusing today on emergency care, unfortunately, some elective procedures and OPD appointments will be postponed,” said a HSE spokesperson.  

“If you have an appointment in a HSE community healthcare setting in Mayo please only travel for your appointment if it is safe to do so.”

Ireland West Airport Knock have also urged the public to take care when travelling to the airport. 

In a post on social media, the airport stated: “After heavy snowfall overnight, if travelling to the airport today please take extra care on the roads. 

“The airport is fully operational and passengers are advised to check with their airline for the latest flight status updates.”