Warning of snow, rain and 80mph winds as preparations put in place for Storm Éowyn

Storm Éowyn
-Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited


As Storm Éowyn is about to descend on Northern Ireland with rain, snow and 80mph winds, government agencies are putting measures in place to prepare for possible disruption.

It has been warned that the strong winds, that are expected between 6am and 9pm on Friday, January 24, could cause power cuts, damage to buildings, fallen trees, spray or large waves on exposed and vulnerable coastal areas, as well as disruption to travel including public transport, ferries and flights.

There has also been a warning for possible flooding in coastal areas with the Department for Infrastructure saying it will have additional staff on standby to respond to any incidents throughout the day.

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Read more: Storm Éowyn to bring snow and 'very strong winds' across Northern Ireland

Read more: New amber wind warning for NI as 90mph gusts expected

A Statement from DfI said: "The Department for Infrastructure’s roads and rivers teams have been checking and clearing road gullies and other drainage and infrastructure and have additional staff on standby to respond to incidents.

"Monitoring of river levels and sea levels has been ongoing and will continue until the weather warning has elapsed.

"Regional Community Resilience Groups have also been advised of weather patterns and to make appropriate preparations.

"The strong winds could lead to power cuts, damage to buildings, fallen trees, spray or large waves on exposed and vulnerable coastal areas, as well as disruption to travel including public transport, ferries and flights. Rain and snow associated with Storm Éowyn is also expected in the early hours of Friday, which could lead to surface water forming by morning.

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"Due to the potential for large waves, flooding of coastal roads is also possible.

"Traffic disruption is possible so please plan ahead, stay up to date with the latest weather and travel advice. Advice and information on the current weather warnings is available at: Strong winds weather warning - information and advice

"It may be necessary to close some roads or put temporary restrictions in place. Road users are reminded to adhere to road signs and any temporary traffic lights. Remember to reduce your speed, stay well behind the vehicle in front, remain focused and always wear your seatbelt and never drive through flood water.

You can track Storm Éowyn live below:

You can also scroll to see the forecast for your chosen time at the bottom of the widget.

"The power of water is often on show during a storm as waves crash against harbour walls, piers and cliffs. It looks spectacular but surges can easily sweep a person off their feet. All it takes is one wave to drag you out to sea – a dramatic photograph or selfie is not worth risking your life. If you see someone get carried away by a wave, call 999 and ask for Coastguard.

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"NIE Networks is reminding the public to stay clear of any damaged electricity equipment and report it immediately to the Customer Helpline on 03457 643 643. Members of the public should never approach a broken pole or electricity line.

"Should customers experience a power cut they can check for updates at Powercheck NI ( powercheck.nienetworks.co.uk ) and report the fault online or call the NIE Networks Customer Helpline on 03457 643 643.

" Translink advises passengers to check its Journey Planner or Translink social media channels in advance of travel, and to allow extra time for their journeys."

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