Fallen trees and flooding adding to woes for Co Antrim motorists in stormy conditions

By The Newsroom
Published 9th Dec 2023, 13:30 BST
Updated 9th Dec 2023, 17:59 BST
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Motorists in County Antrim are warned of fallen trees and flooding impacting key routes today (Saturday).

In an update this afternoon, Trafficwatch Ni is advising of the following incidents:

  • Fallen tree partially blocking the A26 Crankhill Rd after the junction of Loughmagarry Rd (Ballymena bound). Road users are advised to exercise caution until we can have this removed (13:03);
  • Leaving Rasharkin on the Finvoy Rd we have a report of a fallen tree blocking one side of the road (close to Solar Farm). Extra care needed until we can attend and remove (12:39);
  • The Coast Road has been closed in Glenarm due to flooding and land slip - local diversions are in place please allow extra time for journey (11:54).

The Met Office has issued yellow warnings for heavy rain and strong winds across Northern Ireland today.

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Workmen at the scene of last month's Coast Road landslide. The route has again been impacted by adverse weather conditions. Photo: Colm Lenaghan / PacemakerWorkmen at the scene of last month's Coast Road landslide. The route has again been impacted by adverse weather conditions. Photo: Colm Lenaghan / Pacemaker
Workmen at the scene of last month's Coast Road landslide. The route has again been impacted by adverse weather conditions. Photo: Colm Lenaghan / Pacemaker
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In an appeal to motorists, PSNI Mid and East Antrim said: “Please be cautious out and about this morning we are already taking reports that the Coast Road in Glenarm is badly flooded. Please avoid the area if possible.”

The Coast Road near Glenarm was also closed due to landslides in October and November.

Meanwhile, a Christmas family fun day scheduled between noon and 4pm in Ballymena has fallen foul of the weather.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council stated: “It is with great disappointment that the decision has been taken to cancel the Festive Family Fair which is due to take place today, Saturday 9 December 2023 on Greenvale Street, due to weather conditions and the prioritisation of public safety.”

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The stormy conditions have also led to power cuts across the province, including almost 600 customers in Portglenone, over 70 in Coleraine and 60 in Ballycarry. NIE says its engineers are working towards restoring power as quickly as possible in affected areas.

Earlier Trafficwatch NI said the Shore Road close to the Newpark Estate before Glynn village was closed due to trees falling on to overhead power lines with diversions in place (15:00)

Related topics:MotoristsNorthern IrelandBallymena