AS intensive repair works continue in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn, 65,000 customers across Northern Ireland were still without electricity on Monday Morning.
An update from NIE Networks said that power had been restored to around 220,000 properties with the help of extra engineers brought in from England.
Many have still been advised that it could be as long as February 3 before power is restored.
Monday commuters were also warned of a risk of ice on the roads, as some of the normal overnight salting routes were untreated due to the storm disruption,
Drivers are advised to stick to the main roads as much as possible and to be wary of changing conditions.
There has been extensive damage to the electricity network in the Fivemiletown area - our helicopter has identified sizeable sections that will need repaired. #StormÉowyn #Fermanagh pic.twitter.com/Ceby4uwFE9
— NIE Networks (@NIElectricity) January 26, 2025
Translink has also posted updates about the latest service disruptions.
Earlier, Stormont’s first and deputy first Minister called on NIE to offer goodwill payments to those remaining without power.
First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little Pengelly said compensation payments were available in Scotland for affected customers.
Ms O’Neill commented: “We’ve asked NIE to look at the issue of compensation, because we think that it is important that people are supported through these difficult days.”
She added: “These companies make significant profits every year. They should make sure they give that goodwill payment now at a time of need.”
Ms Little Pengelly said: “We understand that that is what is happening with Scottish companies, energy companies in Scotland in relation to the same storm.
“We see no reason why this shouldn’t happen here. So we are urging NIE to go away, consider that and come back to us very quickly with an indication of what they want to do, because we know that those people who are without electricity and water are suffering real hardship.”
A small number of schools remain closed across Northern Ireland on Monday, with the parents advised to keep in touch with their local school.
A total of 154 reports of damage to school buildings were made over the weekend, ranging from missing roof tiles to fallen trees and serious structural damage.
Education Minister Paul Givan commented: “The safety of children and staff is paramount. Maintenance teams have been out on the ground today undertaking essential repairs and assessing whether it is safe to reopen.
Approx.65,000 customers remain without electricity across NI. Power now restored to 220,000 properties. Incident Management Centre & Local Incident Centres remain open to coordinate the response. Stay clear of hazards & report any damage to 03457 643 643. pic.twitter.com/lbZcQDCAW1
— NIE Networks (@NIElectricity) January 27, 2025
On Sunday, he said around 80 schools were without power but that number was continually being updated.
The Education Authority’s Transport Service plans to operate normally on Monday, with the possibility of some disruption or delays to routes.
The Transport Helpline can be contacted on 028 9598 5959 from 9am to 4.30pm.
Yellow weather warnings are in place in the south of England and Wales until Tuesday.
While not as severe in Northern Ireland, the Met Office says it will still be a windy day, particularly along the coasts with cloud and showery rain spreading north from mid-morning.
