Crawford has reported an 800% increase in claims notification due to the devastation caused by Storm Eowyn, a number it expects to “grow significantly” in the coming days as the full scale of the impact becomes clear.
“We are currently handling a wide spectrum of claims ranging from property damage through to business interruption claims, as well as supporting those policyholders who require temporary accommodation,” said Cathy Scott, head of Northern Ireland at Crawford.
The company also expects to see an increase in the number of business interruption claims as commercial operations reopen, including claims for denial of access and claims relating to impact on stock and properties resulting from water ingress due to damage to roofs.
“This is an extremely challenging and distressing time for the communities and business that have been affected by this devastating storm,” said Simon Powell, head of major loss and specialty, Ireland at Crawford. “Our aim is to provide clear support and advice to help limit the impact of these losses and restore lives, communities and businesses as quickly and effectively as possible.”
Storm Eowyn, which struck on Friday, resulted in record wind speeds of 114mph in parts of the UK. The storm caused power outages for hundreds of thousands of residents, with approximately 65,000 homes and businesses in Northern Ireland, 278,000 in Ireland, and 8,000 in Scotland remaining without power as of late Monday morning. Efforts to restore electricity are ongoing, according to reports.
Travel disruptions also continue due to high winds. Network Rail is conducting repairs and reopening lines when safe, following reports of over 500 incidents across its network, including more than 120 fallen trees on tracks. Ten schools in Northern Ireland remain closed due to storm damage, with around 80 still without power as of Monday.
Following the impact of Storm Eowyn, which brought record wind speeds and widespread damage, Storm Herminia has introduced further challenges with heavy rain and strong winds.
The Met Office has issued fresh weather warnings for parts of England and Wales. A warning for heavy rain, potentially leading to flooding, is in effect for most of Wales and parts of the West Midlands until 9pm on Tuesday. Rainfall between 20mm and 40mm is expected widely, with up to 60mm on higher ground.
Additionally, a yellow warning for rain covers London, the southeast, and southwest of England until 10am Tuesday. A yellow wind warning is also in place for the east of England, London, the southeast, the southwest, and Wales until 6am Tuesday.
In Somerset, a major incident has been declared due to overnight flooding, leading to evacuations in the most affected areas. More than 50 flood warnings are active in England, with two in Scotland, as the regions recover from Storm Eowyn.
As Storm Herminia moves in, authorities are advising caution due to the potential for further heavy rain and strong winds. The public is urged to stay informed about weather updates and heed local advisories.
