20,000 homes are without power in the south of the country tonight due to stormy weather.

Power supply was cut after lightning struck, blacking out parts of Cork, Wexford and Kilkenny.

Worst affected areas are Cork, especially Clonakilty, Dunmanway, and Bandon; Gorey and Enniscorthy in Co. Wexford, and Thomastown Co. Kilkenny.

ESB Networks says that due to the severe lightning - which impacts on the ability to deploy crews - most customers currently without supply will not have their power restored until tomorrow.

Crews are expected to begin repairs at first light.

Customers can check the PowerCheck App and follow @ESBNetworks on twitter.

A status yellow gale warning remains in place for the South Irish sea tonight.