Multi Agency partners continue to deal with aftermath of Storm Éowyn

Date published: 26 January 2025

Drop-in centres are open across NI.  Further information is available on local council websites and on NI Direct at Strong winds weather warning - information and advice | nidirect

This a difficult time for those most vulnerable members of our communities and we would ask everyone to continue to help by keeping a close eye on neighbours and supporting them in whatever way you can.

The main strategic road network and the majority of other roads have been cleared and are open.  The Department for Infrastructure will continue to respond to get remaining roads opened as quickly as possible. Road users should pay heed to ‘road closed’ signs as these warnings are intended to keep the travelling public safe while road clearance work is underway.

NIE Networks are continuing to work on faults that will get power back to the highest possible numbers of homes and businesses as quickly as possible. Please check Power Check on their website at nienetworks.co.uk for an initial estimate of when power will be restored to your location. These dates and times will be refined as the restoration work continues over the next few days. Do not approach any damaged electricity equipment. Please be extra careful around fallen trees as they often take electricity poles and wires with them as they fall, and report anything that looks dangerous on 03457 643 643.

NI Water are continuing with emergency repair work on their infrastructure and with this work ongoing some properties may remain without a water supply. Alternative Water Supplies are being made available to customers as required and local councils are supporting NI Water in the distribution of bottled water to customers without supply. The most up to date information can be found on the NI Water website by using the postcode search at https://www.niwater.com/current-service-updates/ or on NI Water’s social media channels.

The Health and Social Care system is operating largely as normal. Following the impact of Storm Éowyn, HSC Trusts are continuing to work closely with a range of agencies to ensure that vulnerable service users are prioritised for assistance where required.

For Urgent and Emergency Care services, patients are encouraged to use the Phone First Service for their local HSC Trust before travelling to an Emergency Department. However, call 999 if you or someone you care for is experiencing a life-threatening emergency.

If you require mental health support, there are services in your area that can provide the help you need, including your GP and specialised healthcare professionals. For further information please visit https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/mental-health-support#toc-0

Notes to editors:

1. Details of road closures are available on the Traffic Watch NI website: https://www.trafficwatchni.com/twni/
2. Report obstructions on the road here report an obstruction at: www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/report-obstruction-road-or-street Or call the 24-hour number on 0300 200 7899.
3. All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office at: press.office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.
4. The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for media enquiries only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.
5. Follow the Department for Infrastructure on Twitter @deptinfra and on Facebook @DepartmentforInfrastructure and on LinkedIn