Road flooding after snow gridlock

Snow created tailbacks in rural County Down

Severe weather conditions caused widespread disruption across Northern Ireland with roads being flooded in the aftermath of the snow.

Northern Ireland Electricity said more than 26,000 households had their power supplies affected by the weather.

Up to 16cm of snow fell in some areas and commuters faced long tailbacks amid efforts to clear roads in Belfast.

Weather experts said the worst of the bad weather may be over with showers and wind forecast for the weekend.

The flooding, caused by a rapid thaw following heavy rain, led to road closures in parts of north Down.

Meanwhile, Transport Minister Conor Murphy has defended claims that some areas were not gritted.

He said more than 140 gritter drivers were out at work trying to clear the roads.

A motorist braved the elements in County Antrim

He said initial warnings from the Met Office forecast light snow flurries, but that more than 100mm of snow fell in many places.

"A fleet of salting lorries was deployed across Northern Ireland from three o'clock onwards yesterday," he said.

"Initially gritters were spreading salt, but as the evening progressed snow blades were used to clear roads where the snow was deep.

"Crews worked continuously through the night, clearing snow and applying salt."

The DoE Roads Service said all roads were passable with care. The police have also urged caution.

Several schools were closed and some prison visits cancelled. Buses were suspended in some areas.

Daniel and Anna Lindsay enjoy the snow in Waringstown, County Down

Meanwhile, the George Best City Airport has re-opened after being closed for a time, but most departing flights are experiencing delays.

A number of incoming flights have also been cancelled.

Belfast International Airport is operational but is experiencing severe delays.

Passengers are advised to check with their airline before travelling.

Belfast Zoo is also closed.

Counties Armagh, Antrim, Down and Londonderry were worst affected by the much heavier than anticipated fall of snow.

Weather experts say the snow has been caused by cold air from the Continent meeting rain over the North Sea.

The Met Office said that there would be rain on Friday night with scattered showers on Saturday.

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