The calm after the storm: ESB confirms Kilkenny was one of worst hit counties

ESB Networks crews are battling to restore power to thousands of homes who felt the full brunt of Storm Diana today.

Kilkenny was among one of the worst affected counties, along with neighbouring Carlow and Cork, Kerry and Tipperary.

Around 19,000 homes, farms and businesses were left without power as severe gusts of up to 130km/h battered parts of the country.

In South Kilkenny, villages and towns such as Inistioge and Thomastown, who are frequently prone to flooding, looked on nervously as water levels rose along vulnerable sections of the River Nore.

Kilkenny and the South East experienced strong winds and heavy rain at times overnight and throughout this morning, with conditions improving as the day wore on.

There were many reports locally of debris on some minor highways, but all roads are passible with no major incidents or casualties reported so far.

Speaking on RTÉ’s Drivetime today, ESB spokesperson Derek Hynes said it was hoped that power would be restored to everyone overnight.

The yellow weather warning issued nationwide was lifted at 6pm this evening as the worst of Storm Diana passed.