Storm Chandra: Nearly 500 flooding calls as DfI warns of ongoing travel disruption

The scene on Steeple Road, Antrim

Road users across Northern Ireland are being urged to exercise caution as the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) continues to respond to the aftermath of Storm Chandra, which has brought widespread flooding, fallen trees and hazardous driving conditions.

While weather warnings for heavy rain and strong winds have now ended, the impact on the road network remains significant, with difficult conditions reported in many areas due to surface water, debris and rising river levels.

As of 4pm today, Tuesday 27 January, DfI confirmed that 288 incidents involving obstructions and fallen trees or branches had been reported across the road network. The M1 westbound from Junction 7 was closed for a period but has since reopened.

An exceptional volume of rainfall has also led to ongoing flooding concerns. A total of 495 calls relating to flooding had been received by DfI as of 4pm, with officials warning that river and lough levels may continue to rise in some locations.

DfI teams are continuing efforts to mitigate the worst impacts of the severe weather where possible, while communities are being urged to remain vigilant and report further incidents via the Flooding Incident Line on 0300 2000 100.

As a precautionary measure, sandbags are being deployed in Newry due to high flows in the Newry River combined with high tide. Flood barriers have also been installed at Oxford Island, on the south-east shore of Lough Neagh near the Lurgan roundabout on the M1, reflecting ongoing concerns around water levels in the area.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins paid tribute to frontline staff working in challenging conditions to keep roads open and communities safe.

“I want to thank DfI colleagues who have been out on the ground clearing debris on the road and dealing with floodwater in very challenging and unpleasant conditions,” she said.

“It is at times like this that the work carried out by public servants for our communities, which often goes unseen, really comes to the fore.”

The Minister warned that disruption is likely to persist as crews deal with the scale of incidents across the network.

“Given the extent of disruption across the road network it will take time to clear and get all roads open as normal again. Staff are responding to incidents, but our response time is being affected by the adverse conditions and incidents will have to prioritised accordingly. The safety of members of the public and our own staff is paramount.”

She also urged motorists to adjust their driving behaviour and only travel if necessary.

“Please take extra care if you must travel and give yourself extra time to get to your destination. When driving, reduce your speed due to the possibility of surface water and obstructions and avoid driving through flood water. Please adhere to any temporary road signs or lights put in place to keep you and other road users safe.”

Public transport users are advised to check Translink’s website for the latest travel updates before setting out on their journey.

Further information and safety advice on strong winds and heavy rain is available via nidirect at:

Strong winds and heavy rain warning – information and advice | nidirect