Almost 1,000 were without power in Laois when a potentially live electrical wire fell on a footpath

Almost 1,000 ESB users were without power after a potentially live power cable fell on a footpath in Portlaoise today.  

The incident occurred at Bridge Street in Portlaoise shortly before 12 noon when it’s understood a lorry collided with an overhead cable leaving a number of premises without power. 

The electrical cable fell onto the footpath and a car parked on the street. The street was closed to traffic for a time and the immediate area is cordoned off while repairs take place. 

Pictured above: An image of the cable which fell on the footpath and car

“Fallen Electricity Wires are live and dangerous. Never approach or touch them. Call our emergency service immediately on 1800 372 999 (+353 21 2382410), 999 or 112,” the ESB warns on its website. 

ESB Networks reported that there were 211 properties left without power in the Bridge Street area after the incident. The ESB estimates the fault will be repaired by 2.15pm. 

ESB crews on the ground said a small number of business in the immediate area may be left without power for the day as a new cable will have to be installed.

A further 767 electricity users were left without power in Kylekiproe, it’s unclear if the two incidents are related at this stage but the fault is expected to be repaired by 1.30pm.