Storm Debi leaves trail of disruption across Northern Ireland

NIE said it hopes to restore power to thousands across Northern Ireland after Storm Debi swept across the country.

Weather warnings were in place on Monday with the public urged to stay at home and not make unnecessary journeys.

Around parts of Co Down were worst hit. However, an amber Met Office warning was lifted as the storm eased.

Several roads had to be closed across the region and transport affected.

Concerns have been raised about the impact the severe weather has had on certain infrastructure, such as the bridge at Quoile River in Co Down.

NIE Networks said there had been a "small number" of power cuts.

"The high winds and adverse weather brought by Storm Debi caused a low level of damage to the electricity network with some customers experiencing power cuts as a result. "Teams have been working all day to repair any damage caused and restore power as quickly as possible. "As of 4.30pm approximately 1000 customers are without power, mainly in the areas of Craigavon, Newry and Downpatrick. The aim is to have all customers restored this evening. "We would like to remind customers that if they should experience a power cut they can report the fault online at www.nienetworks.co.uk or call the NIE Networks Customer Helpline on 03457 643 643. "

The Republic of Ireland experienced the worst of the storm weather, with a red weather warning issued in east Galway and south Roscommon. Around 100,000 homes have been left without power.

A woman was taken to hospital after being hit by flying debris as storm trail of destruction. She was not seriously injured. Heavy winds and fallen trees were reported across Ireland as local authorities moved to respond to the damage following the lifting of red and orange weather alerts. There has been coastal flooding in Galway City and nearby Oranmore. Downed trees and flooding were reported in Co Cavan while Louth County Council also recorded fallen power lines. Fire crews in Meath responded to a number of incidents involving vehicles and fallen trees but reported no injuries. Electricity supplier, ESB said it would have to work late through the night to return power to customers. Forecasters had warned of a potential “danger to life” as schools and services in parts of Ireland delayed opening due to weather warnings across the island.

The weather caused disruption to early morning flights at Dublin Airport, while commuters in the city saw cancellations on a number of services.

Dublin Bus and Luas tram services have resumed in the city after being axed before 10am due to the storm.

The bus-service operator advised services were returning on a phased basis with further disruption possible.

A speed restriction of 50kph was put in place across the entire Irish Rail network as a precaution on Monday morning.

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