Jim Flannery, brand ambassador for OMC Claims, told the Neil Prendeville Show on Cork’s Red FM that the cold spell has had a significant impact on farms across Munster.

“In the past 48 hours, we’ve recorded 30 to 40 cases of snow-related structural damage and a couple of incidents involving fatal injuries to livestock,” he said.

“In one case, a tree fell on an animal. In another, a farmer was trying to move his livestock into a shed but couldn’t due to the deep snow. Later that evening, the shed’s roof collapsed. He was counting his blessings that the animals weren’t inside.”

Flannery noted that insurance coverage varies by policy, meaning some farmers may struggle to secure financial aid for repairs.

“Whether storm damage is covered depends on the policy,” he explained.

“Snow-related damage hasn’t been a major issue since 2010, but back then, insurers did pay out for collapsed roofs. However, farmers must have specifically selected coverage for both structural damage and livestock losses. It’s crucial to check policies, contact insurers, or consult a broker. Our team is also available to help.”

Flannery described the situation as “terrible” for farmers, who must persevere despite the challenges.

Tadhg Buckley, Director of Policy with the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) and a farmer in Boherbue, Co. Cork, said the worst-hit areas include North Cork, North Kerry, and West Limerick.

“We got about 14 inches of snow on Saturday night into Sunday, followed by another two inches on Monday—and it’s all still there,” he said.

“The only way to travel on our road is by tractor. Main roads are passable, but rural roads remain impassable. It’s likely to be Saturday or Sunday before conditions improve.”

Buckley questioned why a red weather warning wasn’t issued. “The snowfall met the threshold for a red warning. Weather alerts are issued by county, but weather patterns don’t follow county borders. We need to assess how to better prepare in the future. I have no doubt that people wouldn’t have been on the roads Sunday if a red warning had been in place.”

He recounted his own experience: “We were traveling home from abroad on Sunday, but we had to abandon the car. Friends picked us up in a jeep.”

Buckley acknowledged the difficulties farmers face, particularly those dealing with shed collapses. “I know of sheds that have already given way and others that are at risk of collapsing under the snow’s weight,” he said. “Farmers need to be extremely cautious when entering these structures.”

He also highlighted the challenges of maintaining power and water supplies. “If you’re facing power outages, it’s crucial to ensure livestock feed is as wet as possible—silage with higher moisture content is ideal,” he advised. The situation, he said, is deeply concerning.

“Waking up to find a shed collapsed is devastating. There’s the financial burden, but also the emotional toll. Recovery will take time.”