Schools shut and thousands without power as Storm Chandra hits island of Ireland

Hundreds of schools are closed and tens of thousands of people are without power as Storm Chandra batters the island of Ireland.

There is also travel disruption caused by the strong winds and torrential rain.

In Northern Ireland more than 300 schools have been closed and there is a yellow rainfall alert currently in place for counties Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Londonderry and Tyrone.

There is an amber warning for wind until 9pm and the yellow rain warning is in effect until midnight.

At least 30 flights at Belfast City Airport were cancelled on Tuesday.

Translink has warned that passengers should allow for delays and possible disruption to their journey.

The public have been warned of danger to life from flying debris, large waves at coasts, travel disruption, buildings damage, flooding, fallen trees, and possible power cuts.

Northern Ireland Electricity said about 10,000 properties are currently without power.

Police said persistent rain had already led to flooding on a number of roads.

In the Republic of Ireland, ESB said around 20,000 homes, farms and businesses are currently without power.

Dublin Fire Brigade said it had responded to a number of flooding incidents in the city.

A Status Yellow rain warning is in effect for Carlow, Kilkenny, Louth, Wexford, Wicklow and Waterford until 11pm.

The entire country also remains under a Status Yellow wind warning.

Iarnrod Eireann said there are disruptions to Dart services and a number of ferry sailings have been cancelled between Dublin and Holyhead.

Dublin Airport said flight cancellations are possible.