Storm Frank: Power restored to 20,000 homes and businesses in NI

Around 500 properties remain without power and repairs are ongoing.

There are a number of areas still without power where broken poles are being replaced and overhead line restrung.

There are also a number of isolated properties without power where significant repairs are required to restore electricity to one or two customers. At present the worst affected areas are: Limavady, Portglenone, Broughshane

The worst damage to the electricity network happened at around 21.00 last night with major faults in Fermanagh (Lisnaskea, Kesh, Five Mile Town and Ballinamallard) and between Limavady and Garvagh. The majority of these customers have now had electricity supplies restored.

Sara McClintock, Communications Manager at NIE Networks said “If homeowners or businesses are without electricity, we would ask them to let us know as soon as possible either by phone on 03457 643643 or online at nienetworks.co.uk. You can also follow us on Twitter @NIElectricity for additional updates.”

NIE Networks is reminding the public to be safe and some of the precautionary measures to take in the event of a power cut:

· never approach broken lines or damaged poles, and keep children and animals away - report damage to NIE Networks on 03457 643 643 and listen to recorded messages carefully

If you are using a generator be careful where you site it in case of carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure there is plenty of air flow around the generator to supply oxygen and remove the fumes.

turn off electric cookers, ovens, irons, etc. if electricity supply is lost

leave a light switched on so you know when power has been restored

take extra care if using candles, oil lamps or other naked flames

test smoke alarms with fresh batteries

ensure adequate ventilation if using gas heaters.