Storm Chandra in Northern Ireland caused almost 300 road obstructions and 500 flooding incidents
Storm Chandra has caused obstructions on almost 300 roads, and almost 500 reports of flooding across Northern Ireland, it has been revealed.
The Department for Infrastructure (DFI) released the figures this afternoon, while urging road users to continue to exercise caution – because rain and wind warnings remain in place for Storm Chandra.
The Amber wind warning remains valid until 9:00pm tonight and is relevant for counties Antrim, Down and Derry.
A Yellow warning for rain and wind is also in place until midnight across all counties.
DFI said this is resulting in difficult driving conditions with some flooded roads, fallen trees, branches, and debris across the road network.
As of 4pm today, it said, there were 288 incidents of obstructions and fallen/trees branches on the road network.
The M1 from Junction 7 westbound was closed for a time but has since reopened.
There has been an exceptional amount of rainfall and in some areas rivers and lough levels will continue to rise.
A total of 495 calls relating to flooding had been received as at 4pm.
DFI said its teams are working hard to mitigate the impacts of this severe weather where possible, but asked communities to remain vigilant and report any further incidents via the Flooding Incident Line on 0300 2000 100.
Sandbags are being deployed in Newry as precautionary measures due to high water levels in Newry river, combined with the high tidal waters.
Flood barriers have also been deployed at Oxford Island southeast shore of Lough Neagh close to the Lurgan roundabout on the M1.
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has paid tribute to staff on the ground.
“I want to thank DfI colleagues who have been out on the ground clearing debris on the road and dealing with floodwater in very challenging and unpleasant conditions,” she said.
“It is at times like this that the work carried out by public servants for our communities, which often goes unseen, really comes to the fore.
“Given the extent of disruption across the road network it will take time to clear and get all roads open as normal again.
"Staff are responding to incidents, but our response time is being affected by the adverse conditions and incidents will have to be prioritised accordingly. The safety of members of the public and our own staff is paramount.
“Please take extra care if you must travel and give yourself extra time to get to your destination. When driving, reduce your speed due to the possibility of surface water and obstructions and avoid driving through flood water. Please adhere to any temporary road signs or lights put in place to keep you and other road users safe.”
Up-to-date traffic information can be found at Traffic Watch NI on X.
Public Transport users should also check Translink’s website for up-to-date travel information before setting out on their journey.
The public can report any incidents of flooding to the Flooding Incident Line 0300 2000 100.
Information and advice on strong winds and heavy rain is available at nidirect: Strong winds and heavy rain warning - information and advice | nidirect.