Humanitarian Assistance Scheme – Kilkenny County Council

The Humanitarian Assistance Scheme supports households affected by severe weather events, including snow and ice damage.
This payment helps meet the cost of essential needs and emergency repairs. It is not full compensation for losses and does not cover damage that is insured or reasonably expected to be covered by home insurance.

Stage 1 – Immediate Support

Provides help with essential items such as:

• Food

• Clothing

• Bedding and basic household needs

Effective Wednesday, 11th February 2026
(Not income‑tested.)

Stages 2 & 3

Support may be available for:

• Essential household items

• Repairs to essential structural elements of the home

These supports are income‑tested under a more flexible and generous assessment.

If you need assistance, contact:

Community Welfare Service: tel: 0818 60 70 80 
Kilkenny County Council out‑of‑hours number: tel: 0818 399 399.

Further details available at Humanitarian Assistance Scheme.

Key Public Safety Messages – Yellow Wind Warning for Kilkenny

Strong Winds & Flying Debris Hazards

Strong and gusty winds may cause:

• Fallen trees, branches, or debris on roads and footpaths
• Loose objects becoming airborne, posing a risk to people and property
• Temporary damage to sheds, fencing, scaffolding, and signage
• Hazardous conditions in exposed and elevated locations

Avoid unnecessary travel during peak wind conditions where possible.

Travel & Road Safety

All road users should:

• Reduce speed and be alert for sudden gusts, especially on open roads, bridges, and higher ground
• Watch for fallen trees, debris, or temporary obstructions
• Take extra care when overtaking high‑sided vehicles such as lorries, buses, and caravans
• Cyclists and motorcyclists should consider postponing travel due to instability
• Expect delays or diversions

Stay Clear of Hazardous Areas

Strong winds increase risks around:

• Trees, wooded areas, and parklands
• Construction sites, scaffolding, and hoardings
• Cliffs, elevated walkways, and exposed riverside or coastal paths

Irish Coast Guard advice:

• Stay Back
• Stay High
• Stay Dry

Agricultural Advisory

Farmers are advised to:

• Secure sheds, polytunnels, gates, and loose materials
• Check roofing, fencing, and temporary structures
• Shelter livestock where possible and avoid exposed fields
• Use caution when operating machinery in windy conditions

Personal Preparedness

Residents should:

• Secure outdoor items such as bins, garden furniture, trampolines, and decorations
• Keep mobile phones charged for weather updates and emergency contact
• Prepare torches and basic supplies in case of power outages
• Check on vulnerable neighbours, particularly older persons or those living alone

Electricity & Power Safety

Strong winds can impact power lines and infrastructure:

• Never approach fallen or damaged power lines
• Report incidents to ESB Emergency Services: 1800 372 999
• Track outages at www.PowerCheck.ie

Stay Informed

For the latest updates:

• Met Éireann: https://www.met.ie
• Kilkenny County Council social media:
  • Facebook
  • Instagram: @kilkennycoco
• Local radio and reputable news outlets for traffic and community alerts