Show Notes
Earlier this year, Storm Éowyn left nearly one million homes without power, bringing widespread disruption to towns and communities across Ireland. It was one of the most powerful storms the country has ever seen, but was it a sign of what's to come? In this episode, we ask: are storms like this becoming more common, what role is climate change playing, and what might the future hold?
Meghann chats with Dr. Noel Fitzpatrick, a weather researcher and science communicator, who breaks down what’s really going on with our climate, why we name storms, and if storms are really getting worse.
We also hear from two very different sides of the storm. Limerick residents Neil and Maura share what it was like when Storm Éowyn hit their home. And from the other side, Siobhan Wynne (regional manager at ESB Networks) gives us a rare behind the scenes look at what happens when the well-known yellow vans are deployed, how teams prepare, respond, and restore power in the middle of a crisis.
More from Re:Energise from ESB
Can a tiny peninsula in County Kerry solve Ireland's energy crisis? Host Meghann Scully heads to Dingle to meet the local trailblazers proving that rural communities are at the absolute forefront of building a sustainable future.
Is it actually possible to ditch your car in Ireland? Host Meghann Scully hits the streets of Dublin to find out how car-reliant we really are, and heads to Galway city to test out a brand new e-mobility hub as a total non-cyclist.
Can you turn a dead wind turbine into an outdoor bridge? Host Meghann Scully dives into the fascinating world of extreme repurposing and circular upcycling, proving that yesterday’s industrial waste is tomorrow’s ultimate "Grand Design."
Is our digital obsession fueling the climate crisis? Host Meghann Scully takes a hard look at the technology we use every day, exploring whether the rise of artificial intelligence, gadgets, and data centres will save the planet—or push it over the edge.
How do we translate climate activism into real, measurable corporate and political action? Host Meghann Scully dives deep into how everyday citizens and major industries can work together to tackle environmental apathy and shape a sustainable future for Ireland.