Number of trees blocking Derry roads as Storm Amy hits

Motorists have been urged to take care as Storm Amy sweeps in.

Road users in Derry have been advised that the Foyle Bridge is closed due to high winds.

A yellow wind warning is in place for the entire region between 2pm on Friday and midnight on Saturday.

Meanwhile, a yellow-level rain warning is in place for the region until midday on Saturday, with the Met Office warning the flooding of homes and business is possible.

An additional amber wind warning was put in place for Antrim, Fermanagh, Tyrone and Derry between 3pm and 8pm on Friday.

A number of trees have already been reported to have fallen down across Derry because of the high winds.

Schools across counties Antrim, Derry, Tyrone and Fermanagh were told by the Education Authority in Northern Ireland to close at noon due to safety concerns.

The UK Met Office said Storm Amy said there is a “good chance” power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage.

It warned there will “probably” be some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs.

Forecasters also warn of a risk of injury and danger to life through flying debris and large waves.

The weather will also affect commuters, with longer journey times and cancellations on public transport expected.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland said it may be necessary to close some routes and advised road users to consider if their journey is necessary, reduce speed, and “take extra care if you must travel”.