Severe weather batters province

The Met Office issued severe weather warnings

Heavy rain and high winds have led to road closures across Northern Ireland and the suspension of some ferry services.

Some parts of the province had up to an inch of rain between Saturday night and Sunday morning, according to the Met Office.

The heavy rain was accompanied by high winds, with gusts of up to 50mph.

Some flights from London Heathrow were also cancelled.

The main problem is that the water is coming off the mountain

Malachy Mulholland
Newcastle resident

There were sporadic power cuts caused by debris hitting overhead cables. About 700 homes were affected.

Last week, torrential rain left a repair bill running into thousands of pounds in Newcastle, County Down.

Malachy Mulholland, who lives in the Tullybrannigan estate in the town, spent the night trying to prevent more damage to his house.

"The main problem is that the water is coming off the mountain," said Mr Mulholland.

"Apparently the drains up there aren't cleaned and the water is just coming over the top of them."

A number of roads were blocked by fallen trees, including the Ballyardle Road outside Kilkeel in County Down and the Coast Road near Glenarm in County Antrim.

The Met Office warned the bad weather would make driving conditions hazardous, particularly on exposed roads and for drivers of high-sided vehicles.

Stena has suspended all its sailings from both Belfast and Stranraer while the bad weather continues. Stena passengers should ring 08705 707070 for further information.