Trains and some buses suspended as Storm Darragh hits Northern Ireland
Some 46,000 customers were without power on Saturday morning following a night of high winds.
Trains and some bus services in Northern Ireland have been suspended until further notice as Storm Darragh hit the island of Ireland.
Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) said about 48,000 customers were without power on Saturday morning following a night of high winds causing “widespread” damage to the network with broken overhead power lines, fallen trees across lines and broken poles.
The Met Office has issued an amber warning to 9pm on Saturday.
Public transport company Translink said on social media: “Due to poor weather conditions all Goldliner services (including Dublin/@DublinAirport and @BelfastAirport buses) and rail services (including Enterprise services) are suspended until further notice.”
Some events in Northern Ireland, including two Irish League football clashes and a planned vigil in Belfast for the women of Afghanistan have been called off, while the Apprentice Boys of Derry Shutting of the Gates event in Londonderry is set to go ahead.
The Belfast Christmas Market is not expected to open on Saturday, depending on weather conditions, with organisers saying they need to ensure visitors and traders are kept safe.
On Saturday morning, NIE Networks said high winds brought by Storm Darragh have caused widespread damage to the electricity network in Northern Ireland.
They said approximately 48,000 customers were without power, and that number could continue to rise.
Repair work is expected to continue at least into Sunday, with continuing high wind speeds hampering restoration efforts.
A spokesperson for NIE Networks said hundreds of extra staff have been brought in.
“We have mobilised additional call agents to deal with any queries customers may have regarding the repair process in their area.
“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. Customers can also follow us on social media for regular updates.”
