Agencies on the ground responding to Storm Francis

Multi-agency partners are currently on the ground working in partnership responding to the impacts of Storm Francis.

Due to the heavy rainfall the Shimna River has burst its banks in places and there are significant reports of flooding in the Newcastle area. Staff were on the ground from early morning distributing sandbags and providing assistance to property owners.

Throughout Northern Ireland the Departments operational teams continue to clear essential infrastructure to reduce the risk of flooding to homes. Close monitoring of water levels is ongoing and will continue until the weather warnings have elapsed. Multi agency conference calls have been ongoing since yesterday so that key agencies have been ready to respond.

Roads have also been impacted by localised flooding and it has been necessary to close a number of roads. The public are asked to consider the need for their journeys, take extra care when travelling and adhere to road signs and/or any temporary traffic control measures. 

A warning for heavy rain and wind remains in place for today until 6.00 am tomorrow (Wednesday) and it is possible this could lead to debris on the roads, fallen trees and spray or large waves on coastal routes.  If your journey is essential, reduce your speed, stay well behind the vehicle in front, remain focused and always wear your seatbelt.  Traffic information can be found on the Trafficwatchni website.

Agencies will continue to monitor the situation closely and take any necessary action.

To report incidents of flooding, please contact the flooding incident line on 0300 2000 100.  Calls taken by the incident line staff are passed to the relevant responding Agency. 

Information about preparing for possible flooding, and what to do after a flood, is available on NI Direct at: Flooding your area.

Advice for road users in all adverse weather conditions can be found on NI Direct at: Driving Adverse Weather.

More detailed information on keeping safe and useful contact numbers is available on the NI Direct website.

Notes to editors: 

1. All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office at: press.office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk
2. The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for media enquiries between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.
3. Follow the Department on Twitter @deptinfra and on Facebook @DepartmentforInfrastructure.

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