NI assesses damage in wake of Storm Ophelia

Q Radio News

Schools and colleges remain shut this morning as Northern Ireland assesses the damage from Storm Ophelia.

A trail of destruction has been left across the province with trees downed, as well as phone and power lines, filling roads with debris.

Power out
NIE says 3,000 customers are still without power, mainly in counties Down, Armagh and Antrim.

Julia Carson from NIE said, "The damage caused by Storm Ophelia has been extensive with lines brought down by falling trees and poles broken by the high winds.  Some areas experienced gusts of up to 70mph.  We have been working in difficult conditions since yesterday afternoon to restore power to over 48,000 customers."

Emergency crews, engineers and resources have been mobilised from Counties Tyrone, Fermanagh and Derry/Londonderry to help with repairs in the south and east of Northern Ireland. 

Transport
Public transport links are  expected to resume today with the exception of school services. Translink has warned there may be some delays.

A spokesperson said, "Safety assessments around the network are ongoing and passengers are advised to check service disruption before travelling and to leave extra time for journeys."

Warning to drivers
Drivers are being warned to be cautious on the roads following the devastation left by Ophelia yesterday.

There are still fallen trees and branches across the region, and the possibility of more falling.

Several roads remain closed and police are advising to reduce speed, stay a safe distance from the car in front, and be prepared for debris.

Displaced in Carrickfergus
A number of people who had to leave their homes in Carrickfergus last night have been allowed to return home.

Apartments in the Rodgers Quay area had to be evacuated over fears of a tidal surge.

Deputy Mayor Cheryl Johnston was on the ground last night supporting those who were out of their homes.

Speaking to Q Radio News she said, "We were extremely concerned about this obviously, and took a proactive response. Residents were evacuated from some of the marina buildings and we had opened the town hall for them, but I'm glad to say everyone's back home now, safe."

Footage of swelling waves at Carrickfergus yesterday.

A previous Yellow weather warning for strong winds from the Met Office has been lifted for Northern Ireland.