As the Status Red Weather Warning comes into effect early Friday, it’s time for the grassroots equestrian community to take stock and prepare.

As quoted in RTE just a short while ago… “The chair of the National Emergency Co-ordination Group has said Storm Éowyn will probably be among the “severest storms” that Ireland has ever seen. Keith Leonard said it will result in very difficult conditions for everybody and cause serious disruption to transport and significant power outages. He said it is likely that the number of people who will lose power will top the 385,000 figure from Storm Ophelia in 2017.”

Storms can be unpredictable and dangerous, but with some forethought, we can reduce risks and keep both horses and humans safe. We reached out to some of the grassroots community for advice and tips on how you get ready for such weather events, and, as always, their wisdom didn’t disappoint. Thanks to those who gave their insights.

Whether your horses are stabled, turned out, or a mix of both, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to storm prep. It’s about knowing your yard, your animals, and the potential risks. As Zoe Smalley put it: “There is no perfect way, but there are wrong ways and things to avoid!”

Assess Your Surroundings

Preparation starts with a close look at your environment. Zoe emphasised the importance of making smart, tailored choices: “If your stables are structurally sound, it’s safer to leave your horses in. But if there’s an old tree hovering over the roof or any structural doubts, it might be better to turn them out.”

Nearby hazards can make a world of difference in a storm. Zoe asked a question we’d all do well to consider: “Is the next door neighbour’s trampoline going to fly over?” Take time to evaluate your fencing and surrounding trees as well. A broken fence caused by fallen branches could mean spending the storm searching for loose horses—a nightmare scenario for anyone.

If your horses are staying out, ensure their rug straps are fastened properly to avoid potential tangles or lost rugs. The aim is to minimise your need to head out into the thick of it.

Prepare for Water and Weather

Storms bring unique challenges depending on your location. In Leitrim, Carly Sterling knows what to expect: “Start filling up bins and buckets of water. Our water always gets shut off in storms, maybe from burst pipes, I don’t know why!”

It’s advice worth taking on board, especially if you’re in a rural area or prone to power cuts. Ensuring you’ve stockpiled enough water for both your horses and yourself is a simple step that can save a lot of hassle.

Carly also highlighted the importance of suitable rugs: “0g liners are useless in heavy rain; go for 50g or 100g.” And don’t forget to secure your yard. Feed bins, tools, and even rugs left hanging in a drafty barn can quickly become hazards. A bit of foresight in weighing down or stowing these items can make all the difference.

Lorraine McElroy had a great recommendation “If you have automatic water drinkers and your water might get cut off, or u have a well with a pump that needs electricity to work, fill up barrels of water and make sure u have enough buckets to go round”.

Safety First and Supplies Ready

Helen O’Hanlon drove home the importance of securing loose items: “Small items can easily become airborne and cause serious damage.” From tying down hay bells to locking away shovels and buckets, these small tasks can save lives—yours and your horses’.

Helen also reminded us to stock up on essentials in advance. From extra hay and feed to torches and first-aid kits, having what you need before the storm hits is key. Her final piece of advice is vital: “Aim to get your yard work done in daylight where possible. Prioritise your own safety first and foremost.”

Forage and Fuel

When a storm rolls in, delays are inevitable. Another practical and thoughtful tip sent in was: “Make sure that you give your horse lots of forage that night—hay or haylage—and ideally enough that if you are late out due to safety in the morning, you know they still have some left.“ It’s really solid advice, ensuring your horses stay comfortable and settled no matter what. And doesn’t have you worried if safety stops you from getting out to them.

What’s the Best Approach?

As Carly put it: “There’s no real right or wrong way to prepare for a storm. Just do what you think is best for your horse, what resources you have access to, and the location you’re in.“

This is the key takeaway. Whether you’re preparing to keep your horses in or turn them out, the goal is always the same: keep them safe while looking after yourself in the process.

In Summary:

Here are the essentials to keep in mind:

• Evaluate your yard: Check for hazards like overhanging trees, trampolines, or unstable structures.
• Secure loose items: Weigh down tools, feed bins, and hay bales. Tie down anything that could become a missile in high winds.
• Stock up in advance: Fill water buckets, prepare extra forage, and gather essentials like torches and first-aid supplies.
• Use appropriate rugs: Opt for rugs with suitable weights for wet and windy conditions.
• Prioritise safety: Get work done in daylight and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
• Provide ample forage: Ensure horses have enough hay or haylage to see them through delays.

Storms challenge even the most experienced of us, but with thoughtful preparation and a little help from the grassroots community, we can protect what matters most. Thanks to those who sent in advice.

The cover photo is from windy.com it was taken at 18:11 on Wednesday. It shows what the weather will be like across Ireland at 7am on Friday. Stay safe folks.