Storm Jocelyn could hamper efforts to restore power to homes, warns NIE Networks
Community centres will open today for those still affected by power cuts
Emergency responders and public sector organisations say they are “working round the clock” to clear roads and restore electricity ahead of the arrival of Storm Jocelyn.
It comes after Storm Isha battered Northern Ireland on Sunday evening and Monday morning.
In the latest update, NIE Networks has confirmed around 6,000 customers are still without power.
However, it is expected this figure may increase as the weather starts to worsen again.
A number of Community Assistance Centres will be open from 12 noon – 3pm for those still affected by power cuts. They are Blair Mayne Leisure Centre, Brownlow Centre, Cookstown Leisure Centre, Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre (Ballymoney), Lakeland Forum (Enniskillen), Omagh Leisure Complex and Lisburn Leisureplex.
NIE Networks staff will be on hand to answer any queries and customers will be able to get a warm drink and charge any devices. Full details and addresses can be found on the NIE Networks website and social media channels.
Storm Jocelyn is expected to bring strong winds from 4pm today and a yellow Met Office warning has been issued and will remain in place until 1pm on Wednesday.
The advice from authorities is to consider if your journey is necessary and to be aware there is a high risk of fallen trees, branches or other debris on the road.
Where roads are closed people are reminded to adhere to road signs and follow any diversions in place. Ongoing industrial action may disrupt the Department’s response to the clear up operation however we will endeavour to clear roads as quickly as possible.
Restoration efforts are continuing and NIE Networks have advised that some customers may experience a loss of power as engineers work to carry out permanent repairs.
Ronan McKeown, NIE Networks Customer Relations Director said, “The significant level and widespread nature of damage caused, along with the active weather warnings in place until Wednesday, mean it is likely that it could be a number of days before power is restored to all customers.”
“We do anticipate that repair efforts will be hampered as winds pick up again this afternoon with the arrival of Storm Jocelyn and there is the potential that further damage could be caused. We will be monitoring the situation at ground level very closely and while our works may be impacted we will continue to work where we can. “
“We want to remind the public to stay clear of any damaged electricity equipment and please report any incidents of damage to the NIE Networks Customer Helpline on 03457 643 643.”
Hear the latest news on Downtown Country on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.