b'High Winds / Windstorms have caused numerousimpacts in Kildare. In most recent times StormDarwin in 2014 caused significant damage tohousing and forestry, and led to issues around accessto safe drinking water to many. Ex-hurricaneOphelia in 2017 caused tree fall on power linesthroughout the county with homes and businesses in Johnstown, Kill, Straffan, The Curragh, and Milltown without power. Damaged roofs and stormdebris increased the risk to the population of thecounty. One example involved a tree falling on a moving car in south Kildare.Disruption to travel wasalso experienced on train and bus routes withschools and colleges closing over the duration of weather events. Storm Emma in 2018 led to widespread falls of heavysnow with North Kildare particularly affected. Snowdrifts led to impassible roads, disruption to servicesincluding hospital services, water shortages and anincreased threat of flooding if heavy rain followed. The winter in 2009 brought the coldest winter experienced in 50 years leading increased demandon Area Offices to maintain water infrastructure andcarry out increased road maintenance. Conditions led to dangerous driving conditions, increased waterpipe damage and an adverse impact on biodiversity and native species. 39'