Helicopter on way from GB to assist with Storm Ali cleanup in NI

Q Radio News

A helicopter is being brought over from GB this morning to survey harder to reach parts of the electricity network.

Around 9000 homes are still without power in the wake of Storm Ali.

More than 150 roads also remain closed.

A spokesperson for NIE Networks said “Helicopters help us to survey large parts of the country quickly, assess network damage in hard to reach areas and support the Local Incident Teams to effectively deploy all of the additional resources that our supporting our restoration efforts.”

Electricity network faults remain widespread however some of the more significant areas affected include Portglenone, Magherafelt, Draperstown, Keady, Craigavon, Lurgan, Newtownbutler, Tamlaght, Waringstown and Mullaghbawn. All NIE Networks Local Incident Centres have been open from first light to assess and deploy teams and resources to where they are most needed.

Additional contact agents have also been brought in to respond to customer enquiries. Customers can contact NIE Networks online, over the phone or on social media.

“As repairs continue this morning some customers may find their electricity is interrupted for a short time to allow us to re-energise neighbouring customers.”

Cathal Brown is from the Department for Infrastructure.

People are still being urged to take care during the clean up - after a Northern ireland water contractor died in Co.Armagh. 

The man, and a colleague, were hit by a tree whilst working in Slieve Gullion forest park yesterday. 

Another woman died in Co.Galway during the strong winds.