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Council issues advice in advance of Storm Bert

22 November 2024

 

In anticipation of Storm Bert, which is expected to bring strong winds that could cause possible disruption on Saturday, 23 November, Derry City and Strabane District Council is encouraging the public to take all the necessary precautions to keep safe. Extra precautions need to be taken in view of the snow and ice weather conditions over the previous days.

 

While the Christmas Lights Switch On in Derry will go ahead as planned this evening, those attending are urged to take note of weather conditions, plan their journey and wrap up warm.

 

It is envisaged however that there may be some changes to the programming for the Strabane Switch On scheduled for Saturday, with a view to moving some of the activities indoors including the Community Christmas Market which will now be held at the Strabane Brass Band premises on 1-3 Wesley Street, beside the Grass Roots Café. Unfortunately, outdoor food will not be available in Castle Street but food and drinks will be available indoors at a number of local venues and the scheduled pony rides in the Alley Courtyard are also cancelled. A full schedule of activity will still take place in the Alley Theatre and the Strabane Library, including Santa’s Grotto, workshops, live shows, music and dance.  The public are urged to follow our social media channels for further updates.

 

In the interests of health and safety, all Council owned public parks, play parks will be closed on Saturday and we are 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 some or all Recycling Centres remaining closed on Saturday.

 

Council outdoor sports and leisure facilities and courts will also be closed. All scheduled matches due to take place on Saturday 23 on Council pitches will be 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 for burials, the public are advised to take extreme care and note that facilities may close immediately following burials in consideration of the weather conditions.

 

All Council owned Leisure Centres will open as normal except for Brooke Park Leisure Centre, which will be closed, and users advised to use facilities at Templemore Sports Complex.

 

The Council will continue to work closely with the promoters organising the gig taking place at the Templemore Sports Complex site on Saturday night, to ensure weather protocols are in place.

 

Routine inspections will be carried out on all Council facilities on Sunday morning prior to them reopening. The public are asked to be patient as it may take time for them to open, and they will only be opened when deemed safe to do so.

 

Householders and businesses across the Council area are also encouraged to take the necessary measures to keep them and their property safe.

 

The following guidance has been provided by the Met Office.

 

Storm Bert – A YELLOW Warning for WIND for Northern Ireland from 0500hrs to 1900hrs on Saturday 23rd November 2024 – VERY LOW Likelihood of MEDIUM Impacts

 

What To Expect

  • There is a small chance of longer journey times or cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected. 
  • There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
  • There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
  • There is a small chance that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
  • There is a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris
  • There is a small chance that some roads and bridges could close

 

Met Office – Further Details

A period of strong southeasterly winds is likely for a time on Saturday, with peak gusts of 50-60 mph in many parts of the warning area, but 60-70 mph in some coastal areas and also locally to the lee (northwest) of high ground, and perhaps in excess of 70 mph along some exposed coasts of Northern Ireland and western Scotland.

 

What should I do?

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

 

 

 

For further advice see:

NB - register on the Met Office website or download the Met Office app to receive weather warnings;  http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/services/mobile-digital-services/weather-app

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