STORM BOELO: Water and electricity outages affecting thousands in Derry, Strabane, Limavady and Donegal
NI Water has provided an update as it works to reconnect Derry residents affected by a loss of water supply, while thousands of homes remain without power across Derry, Limavady, Strabane and Donegal in the wake of Storm Beolo.
Flooding has affected roads across the region with the Foyle Road particularly impacted earlier this morning.
The Foyle bridge meanwhile remains closed this morning due to high winds.
Police said they are aware of a fallen tree on the Ardmore Road close to a licensed premises. “The road is currently closed. Please seek an alternative route,” a spokesperson said.
In Derry, people living in the Ardmore and Drumahoe have experienced a loss of water supply as of Sunday morning.
In an update on efforts to reconnect those affected, NI Water stated that estimated restoration time is 2.30pm on Sunday.
They have advised residents: “You are currently experiencing a loss of water supply, this is due to power outages at our assets as a result of the current adverse weather.
"Be assured we are working to restore your water as soon as possible.”
Postcode areas potentially affected in the city are as follows: BT473RD, BT473RH, BT473RL, BT473RN, BT473RP, BT473RR, BT473RT and BT473RW.
Numerous electricity outages have also been reported across the north west.
In a safety message, Northern Ireland Electricity have urged people that “if you have come across damaged electricity network equipment please report this immediately by calling our customer helpine on 03457 643643.”
Meanwhile it’s understood over 20,000 people across different parts of Donegal, including residents across parts of Inishowen, lost power overnight during the Storm.
Some areas of Inishowen have now been reconnected while ESB said it could be 8pm before the supply is restored in other areas of the peninsula.
ESB posted this morning: “We're assessing the damage to the electricity network caused by Storm Boelo. We'll provide updates on the estimated restoration times as soon as crews have evaluated impacted areas. Thank you for your understanding.”
Following the storms, drivers have been urged to take extra care when travelling this morning.
”Debris, fallen trees, and branches may still be obstructing parts of the road network. Please remain alert and allow extra time for your journey.
"Road Users are advised that the Foyle Bridge is currently closed in both directions due to strong winds. Please use diversionary route for your journey,” DfI Traaficwatch has stated.