Ireland: 10 cattle killed by lightning 

The accident took place on a farm in Butlersbridge on Friday evening, 6th June, after the status yellow thunderstorm warning for the county had expired.

It is understood that the cattle have taken shelter under a tree in the middle of the field. A bolt of lightning then struck the earth, killing the cattle instantly, The Sun reported.

Speaking to Northern Sound radio station, Cavan TD Brendan Smith offered his condolences to the owner of the livestock.

He added: “It just shows how dangerous storms can be and changing weather patterns.

“I want to say to the farmer I appreciate the huge loss it is to him, and it’s a huge shock to hit any farmer.

“We all know farmers go out and tend to their cattle and their livestock and to their land in such a dedicated and diligent manner.

“So it is a huge loss to any individual, and I am very sorry to hear of that particular and major loss on a farm in so many ways.”

What to do before, during and after a storm

NFU Mutual issued detailed safety advice for protecting farms and its residents before, during and after the storm:

Before the storm

• Stay alert for Met Office weather warnings.
• Regularly inspect your farm and keep on top of maintenance by carrying out necessary repairs to buildings, fences and walls whilst the weather is calm.
• Check that tiles, slates, and roofing sheets are in place and put away any items that cannot be secured.
• Avoid being near barn doors if there are high winds.
• Make sure gutters are not leaking and are clear of leaves and other debris.
• Protect and lag water pipes in vulnerable areas and know where the water supply is so that you can turn it off in the event of burst pipes.
• Ensure you have a good tree inspection programme in place, paying particular attention to trees bordering buildings, roads, railway lines and rights of way.
• Prepare for power cuts: have torches and batteries to hand and make sure any generators are ready to use, and can run at full load for long periods of time, if required.
• Plan evacuation routes to get staff and livestock to safety in the case of extreme weather such as floods – identify higher ground that you can move livestock to in event of flooding.
• Have your insurer’s emergency helpline available. Call NFU Mutual’s 24-hour commercial helpline freephone number on 080028265.

During the storm

• Do not leave the house or make journeys unless absolutely necessary.
• If you need to leave the house, avoid the sheltered side of walls when walking.
• If journeys are essential, drive slowly and carefully, staying aware of high winds on exposed roads and ice and water on the road.
• Do not attempt emergency repairs during the storm.
• Keep all building doors and windows closed.

After the storm 

• Be aware after a storm or weather event, power cables or powerlines may have been brought down.
• Don’t enter any buildings that could be unsafe following a storm.
• Report any damage to NFU Mutual as soon as possible.

Read more farm safety news.