More than 2,000 households across Scotland remain without power following the destructive impact of Storm Éowyn. Despite efforts from energy companies, the damage to infrastructure continues to disrupt services, including power supplies and transportation.
Ongoing Power Restoration Efforts
Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) reported that 1,908 customers in central and southern Scotland are still experiencing outages. Engineers from both SPEN and Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) are actively working to restore electricity to affected areas. SSEN has confirmed that 240 customers remain without power, and efforts are underway to reconnect them.
The storm caused extensive damage across Scotland, with outages affecting several regions, including Dumfries and Galloway, where the majority of affected households are located. While more than 99% of customers have had their power restored, SPEN said that 1,900 homes remain waiting for reconnection.
Both energy providers are offering hot food and drinks to customers still without power, with updates on available locations shared via social media.
Railway and Transport Disruptions
The storm also wreaked havoc on the rail network, with winds gusting up to 100 mph causing significant damage. Network Rail reported responding to over 800 incidents, and although 75% of the rail network is now operational, some services remain disrupted.
ScotRail continues to provide rail replacement services on affected routes, including:
- Paisley – Gourock/Wemyss Bay
- Kilwinning – Largs/Ardrossan
- Hamilton Circle – Ayr/Girvan/Stranraer
These replacement services, however, lead to longer travel times. Passengers are advised to check updated schedules on the ScotRail app.
Storm Éowyn’s Toll
Storm Éowyn’s high winds caused fatalities and extensive damage. A 19-year-old man in East Ayrshire was tragically killed when a tree struck his car, and several buildings suffered roof damage, including the Helensburgh Leisure Centre. In Glasgow, a historic 400-year-old tree in Darnley Park, associated with Mary Queen of Scots, was severely damaged.
The Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh also lost its tallest tree, a historical landmark planted by Queen Victoria’s eldest son in 1859. The storm’s impact has left communities devastated, with some schools, such as Donibristle Primary in Dalgety Bay, closed due to structural damage.
Government Response
Home Affairs Secretary Angela Constance provided an update on the recovery efforts, acknowledging the challenges faced by communities. She expressed gratitude for the ongoing efforts to restore services and urged continued patience as Network Rail works to resolve disruptions.
The storm’s aftermath continues to affect Scotland, but efforts to restore power, repair infrastructure, and clear debris are underway.
