7000 customers lose power due to Storm Doris

NIE Networks emergency repair teams have been out from early morning and have restored electricity supplies to around 14,000 customers, it said.

Customers can call its helpline on 03457 643 643 to report faults or report online at nienetworks.co.uk.

Further information on fault restoration is available on our website and we will be issuing information via Twitter @NIElectricity.

CLICK HERE FOR THE NI NETWORKS WEBSITETrees and branches falling onto overhead electricity lines is the main cause of the damage. There are also a number of broken poles and electricity lines, NIE said.

It is continuing to assess the extent of the damage to the network and to move staff and equipment to where they are most needed.

Planned work in all areas has been cancelled and all available operational staff are being redeployed to help repair efforts.

Sara McClintock, NIE Networks’ Communications, said: “As Storm Doris moves from west to east through Northern Ireland we are seeing new faults to the electricity network. The number of customers affected by power cuts will continue to fluctuate throughout the morning as electricity in some areas is restored and power in other areas affected.”

NIE Networks is also reminding customers of the precautionary measures to take in the event of a power cut:

:: never approach broken lines or damaged poles, and keep children and animals away - report damage to NIE Networks on 03457 643 643 and listen to recorded messages carefully

:: if you are using a generator, be careful where you site it in case of carbon monoxide poisoning

:: turn off electric cookers, ovens, irons, etc. if electricity supply is lost

:: leave a light switched on so you know when power has been restored

:: take extra care if using candles, oil lamps or other naked flames

:: test smoke alarms with fresh batteries

:: ensure adequate ventilation if using gas heaters.