Department for Infrastructure updates on Storm Chandra

Department for Infrastructure updates on Storm Chandra

Date published: 27 January 2026

The Amber wind warning remains valid until 21:00 tonight and is relevant for counties Antrim, Down and Derry. A Yellow warning for rain and wind is also in place until midnight across all counties.

This is resulting in difficult driving conditions with some flooded roads, fallen trees, branches, and debris across the road network.

As of 4pm today, 288 incidents of obstructions and fallen/trees branches on the road network have been reported. The M1 from Junction 7 west bound was closed for a time but has since reopened.

There has been an exceptional amount of rainfall and in some areas rivers and lough levels will continue to rise. A total of 495 calls relating to flooding have been received as at 4pm. DfI teams are working hard to mitigate the impacts of this severe weather where possible and communities should remain vigilant and report any further incidents via the Flooding Incident Line on 0300 2000 100.

Sandbags are being deployed in Newry as precautionary measure due to high flow in Newry river and high tide. Flood barriers have also been deployed at Oxford Island SE shore of Lough Neagh close to the Lurgan roundabout on the M1.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has paid tribute to staff on the ground:

"I want to thank DfI colleagues who have been out on the ground clearing debris on the road and dealing with floodwater in very challenging and unpleasant conditions.

"It is at times like this that the work carried out by public servants for our communities, which often goes unseen, really comes to the fore.

"Given the extent of disruption across the road network it will take time to clear and get all roads open as normal again. Staff are responding to incidents, but our response time is being affected by the adverse conditions and incidents will have to prioritised accordingly. The safety of members of the public and our own staff is paramount.

"Please take extra care if you must travel and give yourself extra time to get to your destination. When driving, reduce your speed due to the possibility of surface water and obstructions and avoid driving through flood water. Please adhere to any temporary road signs or lights put in place to keep you and other road users safe."

Up-to-date traffic information can be found at TrafficwatchNI. Public Transport users should also check Translink's website for up-to-date travel information before setting out on their journey.

Report any incidents of flooding to the Flooding Incident Line 0300 2000 100.

Information and advice on strong winds and heavy rain is available at nidirect: Strong winds and heavy rain warning - information and advice | nidirect