It appears that the winds are on their way to Ballymena. Hurricane Ophelia has already caused the schools to get shut down. Hopefully the weather will not be as extreme as has been predicted but here is some advice incase things get a but crazy. Our first tip is that if it is windy and rainy – don’t even bother trying to put your umbrella up. Charge your phones and keep some candles close by!
Below we are sharing information from various professional agencies:
Photo by Mahkeo on Unsplash
NI DIRECT
With very strong winds forecast, it’s important that people take care to protect themselves and their property. Disruption to traffic or travel is likely and power cuts are also a possibility. People should monitor the Met Office forecasts for their area, be aware of the weather conditions, and pay attention to safety warnings.
Emergency numbers
People should note the following numbers in case of emergency:
- Emergency services – 999 or 112
- Housing Executive – 03448 920 901
- Northern Ireland Electricity Networks – 03457 643 643
- NI Gas Emergency Service – 0800 002 001
- Northern Ireland Water Waterline – 03457 440 088
- Flooding Incident Line – 0300 2000 100
Roads information
If there are any problems on the roads, you can get the latest updates on the this link:
RSCPA
RSPCA companion animal scientist Alice Potter said:
“Extreme weather like we’ve been seeing can spell trouble for animals as well as humans. We urge pet owners to keep an eye on the weather forecast in their area and plan ahead to make sure their animals are safe.
“It might be necessary to keep cats inside if the winds become very extreme. People should remember to make sure they have everything they need, especially places to hide (and a litter tray if they don’t usually have one).
“Dog owners should plan walks so that the extreme weather can be avoided, and dogs should be accompanied at all times. Two or three shorter walks may be a better option to avoid being out in the wet weather for a long period of time.
“Most of it is common sense – but it is very easy to forget the obvious, especially since this weather has been going on so long we have become almost too used to it.
“We can all take simple steps to help animals at this time however our inspectors are on-call around the clock so they can help if the worst should happen.”
ADVICE FOR FARMERS
Grove vets in Ballymena shared this article earlier today which give advice to farmers who own livestock.
- If possible, large livestock should not remain in sheds as wind damage to the building would injure them. “Turn them loose in larger pastures or pens with some solid shelter or tall brush and large trees on high ground,” Texan experts advise. “Cattle and horses will instinctively go deep in this type of cover. Smaller livestock (sheep, goats, swine, or rabbits) can be brought indoors for protection if necessary.”
- Do not put yourself at risk checking livestock that remain outside, but be prepared to check on them immediately following the storm.
If you are a farmer please click here to read the full article.
Apologies if our article today has been long-winded (lol) but please read this and share it with anyone who you think woudl benefit from this information. Stay safe today folks.