Council issues advice in advance of Storm Ashley
18 October 2024
In anticipation of Storm Ashley, which is expected to bring strong winds and could cause possible disruption on Sunday, Derry City and Strabane District Council is encouraging the public to take all the necessary precautions to keep safe.
In the interests of health and safety, Council is closing all of its public parks, play parks and grass pitches on Sunday and advising the public to avoid using open spaces and areas where there are trees.
The public are advised that there could also be some disruption to recycling centres across the Council area with Pennyburn, Strathfoyle and Strahan’s Rd Centres remaining closed on Sunday.
Council outdoor sports and leisure facilities and courts will also be closed. All scheduled matches due to take place on Saturday 19th October on Council pitches will proceed, however all matches scheduled for Sunday 20th October have been cancelled due to the current weather warning and Council is in the process of contacting clubs and user groups accordingly.
While the Cemeteries will remain open, the public are advised to take extreme care.
All of our Leisure Centres will open as normal with the exception of Brooke Park Leisure Centre which will be closed and users advised to use facilities at Templemore Sports Complex.
Routine inspections will be carried out on all facilities on Monday prior to them reopening.
Householders and businesses across the Council area are encouraged to take the necessary measures to keep them and their property safe.
The following guidance has been provided by the Met Office.
Storm Ashley – What to expect
Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen
Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
Some roads and bridges may close
Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible
What steps to take.
Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences.
Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.
People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.
Emergency Contact numbers:
Emergency services 999 or 112
Flooding Incident Line - 0300 2000 100
NI Electricity Networks – 03457 643 643
NI Gas Emergency Service – 0800 002 001
NI Water – 03457 440 088
Housing Executive – 03448 920 901
Report a blocked road – 0300 200 7891