Storm Jocelyn brings further disruption and power cuts following Isha

Efforts to restore power to customers after Storm Isha have continued as Storm Jocelyn swept in and caused further damage.

Power has been restored to over 50,000 homes, while 3,000 homes remain without electricity.

In the north, a yellow wind warning came into effect at 4 pm on Tuesday and is due to lift at 1 pm today.

Motorists have been advised by the Department of Infrastructure to take extreme care when traveling today morning due to the weather warning in effect for strong winds, which may have blown trees, debris, and other hazards onto roads and caused closures.

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They warn the dangerous conditions also pose a risk to life along the coast from large waves and flying debris.

Widespread disruption is expected, with potential for building damage, road blockages, power outages, and fallen trees.

The Old Stone Road connecting the A6 Belfast Road and Seven Mile Straight in Co. Antrim has been closed due to a fallen tree, forcing diversions and traffic in the area, creating delays for those attempting to access the airport.

The high winds additionally closed Somerton Road in Belfast between the Lansdowne Road and Fortwilliam Park junctions, also due to a fallen tree.

Co. Derry has been similarly impacted, with Great James Street between Strand Road and Little James Street in Derry now being closed due to roof tiles falling from a building.

Belfast International and Belfast City Airport have issued warnings that today’s weather could lead to flight disruptions.

One of Northern Ireland’s most popular visitor attractions was forced to close on Tuesday due to damage caused by Storm Isha.

In a social media post, Titanic Belfast confirmed that it had closed its doors to safeguard public and staff.

It said: “Due to damage caused to its roof during Storm Isha and further inclement weather from Storm Jocelyn preventing safe access to the roof, Titanic Belfast has taken the decision to close, to safeguard the public and its staff and to allow for further assessment of the damage.

“The safety of the public and its staff are Titanic Belfast’s priority and as such access to the building is closed and customers are being asked not to come to the site. All prebooked customers will be notified and refunded.

“We apologise for the inconvenience caused.”

In the Republic of Ireland, 24,000 of the 221,000 customers who lost power during Storm Isha remained without supply on Tuesday evening.

A further 14,000 customers lost supply during Tuesday due to Storm Jocelyn.

Stormont’s Department for Infrastructure said multi-agency partners have been working around the clock to restore electricity supplies damaged by falling trees.

A spokesperson said : “The advice is to consider if your journey is necessary and to be aware there is a high risk of fallen trees, branches or other debris on the road.”

“Where roads are closed people are reminded to adhere to road signs and follow any diversions in place.”

The department also said that ongoing industrial action being taken by public sector workers may disrupt the clear-up operation.

It added: “The clear-up operation following Storm Isha continues, to address the remaining obstructions on the road and significant interruptions to electricity supplies.

“Further disruption is expected.”

A number of community assistance centres opened across Northern Ireland on Tuesday for those still affected by power cuts offering hot drinks and information.

Storm Jocelyn is named after Northern Ireland astrophysicist Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell.