Storm Éowyn: Full list of Monday school closures in NI with disruption on roads and 65k still without power

“Dry and largely sunny weather is forecast for Wednesday and Thursday with overnight frosts and fog patches.”

Only a small number will be closed due to damage and the majority of those are hoping to reopen on Tuesday.

“Work has continued today to support schools impacted by Storm Éowyn to reopen as soon as possible,” Mr Givan said, in a statement issued on Sunday night.

“Despite the challenging weather conditions, NIE Networks have over 1,000 staff escalated, with c211,000 customers already having their power restored,” a statement said.

“Our Incident Management Centre at Craigavon remains open, as well as our Local Incident Centres, which are in locations across Northern Ireland and used by our teams to co-ordinate our localised response.

“We are particularly keen to remind the public to maintain safety around any damaged electricity equipment and never approach a broken pole or overhead power lines, and keep children and animals away. Please report any damage to NIE Networks immediately on 03457 643 643.”

NIE Networks is also reminding customers of the cautionary measures they can take in the event of a power cut:

“This a difficult time for those most vulnerable members of our communities, and we would ask everyone to continue to help by keeping a close eye on neighbours and supporting them in whatever way you can,” NIE said.

“We would remind customers that they can report faults online, and also check for status updates at www.nienetworks.co.uk, or call the NIE Networks Customer Helpline on 03457 643 643.”

A statement on Sunday evening said: “Multi-agency partners are continuing to deal with the aftermath of Storm Éowyn which caused widespread damage and disruption to critical infrastructure across the north.

“This a difficult time for those most vulnerable members of our communities and we would ask everyone to continue to help by keeping a close eye on neighbours and supporting them in whatever way you can.

“The main strategic road network and the majority of other roads have been cleared and are open. The Department for Infrastructure will continue to respond to get remaining roads opened as quickly as possible.

“Road users should pay heed to ‘road closed’ signs as these warnings are intended to keep the travelling public safe while road clearance work is underway.”

The Department has signposted information on local council websites and on NI Direct around drop-in centres that are open across NI.

Mr Benn said ministers from a number of UK Government departments, led by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden, were working to assist NI Executive ministers.

It comes after he joined a call on Saturday afternoon between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly.

The PM paid tribute to the efforts of all those involved in the response to the storm and their tireless work in keeping people safe.

Speaking on Sunday afternoon, the Secretary of State said the scale of the damage was “deeply concerning” and also expressed his gratitude to those working on the relief effort.

“I am pleased that under mutual aid arrangements, specialist engineers from England are already in Northern Ireland to assist with the urgent effort to restore power to communities and more are on their way,” Mr Benn said.

“We are also examining how we can assist with other requests made by the Executive and Northern Ireland Electricity for equipment and personnel.

“I will continue to work closely with Cabinet colleagues and Northern Ireland Executive ministers in the days ahead to make sure we are doing all that we can to support those affected.”

NI Water says it has been facing significant issues including the loss of electrical power at pumping stations, damage to equipment, and loss of remote connectivity to sites.

The supplier says teams have been working round the clock to restore water to homes. 

“Our priority is the restoration of water supplies for all customers and we will continue to carry out repairs and deploy generators until all assets are operational,” a statement said.

“We’ve also been tankering water into some locations in Co Tyrone to restore supplies. Bottled Water is available for customers to collect at Omagh Leisure Centre, Enniskillen Lakeland Forum, and Dungiven Sports Centre.

“Thank you for your understanding and please be assured we are doing everything possible to restore water supplies as quickly as possible.”

Experts warn that using such items indoors can cause carbon monoxide levels to rise dangerously high, resulting in CO poisoning.

“Only equipment designed to be used indoors should be brought inside the home,” they say. “Where any fuel burning equipment is used indoors there must be good ventilation and in conjunction with carbon monoxide alarm. Always follow the manufacturers guidance.”

The Met Office is warning that strong winds could disrupt transport and infrastructure, with delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport likely. It adds that some coastal areas may be affected by spray or large waves, and some short term loss of power and other services is possible.

“We are still visiting locations where damage has been caused and are working on the faults that will get power back to the highest possible numbers of homes and businesses,” he added.