On This Day (2023): Storm Agnes Causes Widespread Disruption in Ireland
Ireland was hit by Storm Agnes on 26 September 2023, the first named storm of the 2023–2024 season.
The storm formed as a low-pressure system over the mid-Atlantic and intensified rapidly before reaching Ireland, undergoing a process known as explosive cyclogenesis.
Met Éireann issued multiple weather warnings, including orange and yellow alerts for strong winds and heavy rain. Coastal areas were battered by gale-force winds, while inland counties saw intense rainfall, leading to localized flooding and hazardous travel conditions.
Wind gusts reached 117 kilometres per hour at Sherkin Island in County Cork, while sustained winds peaked at 85 kilometres per hour at Roches Point.
The storm caused widespread damage, with fallen trees blocking roads, power outages affecting thousands of homes and businesses, and structural damage reported in counties Kerry, Limerick, Sligo and Donegal.
Emergency services urged people to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. In the aftermath, authorities worked to clear debris and restore power, while Met Éireann continued to monitor conditions and warn of ongoing strong winds and rough seas.
