Nearly 5,000 homes without power across Cavan

Schools are closed and driving conditions are been described as dangerous

Nearly 5,000 customers in Co Cavan are without power this morning after heavy snowfall overnight. Schools have been closed, social gatherings cancelled and traffic disruptions reported in a number of areas.

Power outages are being reported in Loch Gowna, Arva, Carrigallen, Killeshandra, Ballinagh, Bawnboy, Ballyhaise, Ballyconnell, Mullahoran and Finea.

34 customers are impacted in Loch Gowna; 85 in Carrigallen, 270 in Killeshandra, 3,000 in Ballinagh, 628 in Bawnboy; and 216 in Ballyconnell.

Many parts will not have power restored until 4pm today according to ESB powercheck.ie ​

Meanwhile, there is a tree down on the old Belturbet Road and the fire services are at the scene. A Bus Eireann vehicle is blocking the upwards lane on Bridge Street towards the Diamond in Belturbet and a truck has jackknifed at Staghall.

Elsewhere, a status yellow snow and ice warning for the region has been issued and Cavan County Council has advised - in the last hour - that motorists should not travel due to “dangerous” driving conditions across the county.