AN POST have given a major update following Storm Darragh disruption as deadline for Xmas delivery closes in.
Storm Darragh has caused major disruption to An Post services over the past few days.
Ireland’s national postal service has now confirmed in a statement that they are gradually returning to normal today.
Deliveries are underway across many parts of the country, though some areas affected by the storm will see staff delivering as soon as it is safe to do so.
An Post said the situation is an important reminder to customers to post their holiday cards and parcels early, especially when sending to distant destinations.
They said: “An Post is making deliveries in many parts of the country today, following yesterday’s storm disruption to national and local services.
“In badly impacted areas, local staff will deliver as soon as it’s safe to do so.
“Weather disruption is a reminder to get posting early, particular to far flung destinations.”
If you’re planning to send Christmas cards to the United States, the last recommended posting date is Tuesday, December 10 to ensure timely delivery.
For parcels being sent across Europe, An Post advises that they should be posted by Thursday, December 12.
With the busy Christmas period ahead, An Post expects to deliver up to 3 million parcels this week alone.
Following the restoration of power in affected areas by the ESB, all post offices are expected to open for business tomorrow.
The postal service also said that Santa has asked children across Ireland to post their letters to him as soon as possible, as it will allow time for the postal elves to send replies from the North Pole.
To ensure a quick reply, children should be sure to include their full name and address in their letters.
As the Christmas season approaches, the postal service said they are working hard to ensure all holiday mail reaches its destination on time despite any weather challenges.
Meanwhile over 20,000 homes still without power as thousands more to go without water following Storm Darragh chaos.
Power outage for thousands of households
Power restoration could take days to come back for thousands of households.
ESB Networks announced that its teams and partner contractors will resume work today to restore power to thousands of customers affected by Storm Darragh.
The storm caused widespread and major damage to the electricity network, affecting power lines and infrastructure across the country.
The number of customers without power has decreased from a peak of 395,000 yesterday, but some areas may remain without electricity for several days due to the extent of the damage.
ESB Networks warned that restoration times will vary depending on the severity of the damage in each location.
The company will continue to update customers on estimated restoration times, and they can check www.PowerCheck.iefor real-time information.