Unsettled weather over next few days

Met Eireann has said that it expects the unsettled weather to continue on Friday and Saturday, although the severity of the winds will not match those experienced during Storm Darwin.

The National Coordination Group established to deal with the recent weather crisis said this morning that Storm Darwin had damaged communications infrastructure and up to 60,000 customers may be without service. There was damage to a number of buildings and major disruption to communities. 

This morning, 190,000 homes and businesses remain without electrical supply. As part of the emergency response today, crews from Northern Ireland Electricity will join ESB Networks staff to assist in the restoration effort.

Also ESB Networks crews have been drafted to the worst effective areas from all over the country and are already assisting in the repair work. ESB have advised that it deployed 2,000 staff to deal with power outages, and it could take a number of days to restore power to all areas as some of the infrastructure is in remote areas and access problems may hinder them.

The public have been reminded to continue to follow the weather warnings and to heed the safety messages of the authorities.
People should also be mindful when using candles and open heating sources in the home.
All road users are advised to exercise extreme caution as there is still the danger from debris/fallen trees and icy roads today.

People should use public transport where available, allowing extra time for journeys and check details with their transport providers in advance of travel.
The group noted the ongoing community resilience and praised the public for heeding safety advises.
Met Éireann have said the current unsettled spell will continue tomorrow and Saturday with heavy rain and very strong and gales.