Limerick, Ireland – A sudden and severe thunderstorm in Limerick on Saturday proved fatal for two individuals, shedding light on the destructive power of nature. The victims, identified as Patrick, a farmer, and his workman, John Hanley, lost their lives as lightning struck while they were loading hay onto a cart in Ballybroder. The unfortunate incident also claimed the life of the horse attached to the cart, succumbing to the same lightning strike.

In the heart of the city, the fury of the storm targeted two houses owned by the Limerick Artisans’ Dwellings Company, situated in Watergate. The roofs of these properties suffered damage, with two mirrors shattered in one of the houses. A hole several feet square was torn into the roofs, highlighting the intensity of the lightning’s impact. Miraculously, the occupants of one of the houses, who were in the kitchen at the time, escaped unharmed. However, the thunderous crash left them shaken, with debris scattered around them.

The destructive path of the storm extended to the agricultural sector, where a farmer in the region incurred a significant loss. Ten calves, belonging to the unfortunate farmer, were struck and killed by lightning. Additionally, two pigs owned by another resident in the district met a similar fate, succumbing to the powerful force of nature.

The residence of the parish priest of Patrick Well suffered severe damage, catching fire due to the lightning strike. The extent of the destruction caused by the flames added to the overall toll of the storm’s rampage. The widespread impact of the lightning across the county resulted in substantial hay losses, with numerous instances of fires being ignited by the electric current.

Reports indicate that the storm may have exacerbated the already substantial damage in various districts, raising concerns about the cumulative toll on the affected communities. Instances of structures catching fire or being damaged by the electric current were reported across different regions, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the thunderstorm’s fury.

In one unfortunate incident, a labourer’s cottage was struck by lightning, causing substantial damage to the property. Although the residents emerged unscathed, a log from their property was reportedly hurled from one part of the premises to another. The impact left the residents in shock, with one individual unconscious for several hours before eventually recovering.

The aftermath of this unprecedented thunderstorm has left the community grappling with the immediate consequences of lives lost, property damage, and economic setbacks. The widespread destruction of hay, along with the loss of livestock, adds a layer of hardship for farmers already facing challenges in the current economic climate.

As the affected areas assess the extent of the damage caused by the thunderstorm, there is a collective effort to provide support and assistance to those who have suffered losses. Authorities are mobilizing resources to address the aftermath, including damage assessment, clean-up operations, and support for affected individuals and businesses.

The thunderstorm in Limerick serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and powerful forces of nature that can, in an instant, reshape lives and communities. As the affected areas look to rebuild and recover, the resilience and solidarity of the community will undoubtedly play a crucial role in overcoming the challenges posed by this natural disaster.

Dublin Daily Express – Tuesday 01 August 1911