Storm Chandra causes disruption to roads and services

Road-users in Armagh are advised that the Killylea Road is currently closed due to flood water, with closures also at the junctions of and along Ballycrummy Road, Nursery Road and Cathedral Road, which are impassable.
Please avoid the area.
Police have been dealing with number of weather related incidents this morning
A spokesperson said, “Please be advised we have been dealing with several fallen trees on Gosford Road, Armagh. This is currently passable through Martkethill while our colleagues in road service work to get them removed.
“We are currently responding to a number of incidents related to the weather.”
“Motorists are advised that the Armagh Road, Tandragee, is flooded close to the junction with Cordrain Road and Cooly Hill. Please seek an alternative route for your journey.
There is currently a Yellow weather warning for wind and rain covering the majority of ABC until 23.59hrs tonight (27/01/26).
“Other parts of NI are subject to an Amber weather warning for wind.
“Please allow extra time for your journey and be prepared for flooding and debris on the roads.
“Ensure you allow enough space to the vehicle in front.
“DO NOT attempt to enter flood water.
“Where possible seek an alternative route.
“We are working closely with statutory agencies and other emergency services.
“Phone 999 in an emergency.
Around 350 schools are currently closed across Northern Ireland as a resuly of the weather.
In the Southern Area these include:
l Poyntzpass Primary School, 1 Tandragee Road, BT35 6SL
l St Joseph's Convent Primary School Newry, Edward Street, BT35 6AN
l Grange Primary School, 20 Lurganconcary Road, BT34 4LL
l St Joseph's Primary School Bessbrook, 28 Convent Hill, BT35 7AW
l St Ronan's Primary School Newry, Ashgrove Avenue, BT34 1PR
l St Joseph and St James's PS Poyntzpass, 34 Chapel Street, BT35 6SY
l St Paul's High School, 108 Camlough Road, Bessbrook, BT35 7EE
St Louis Grammar School, 151 Newry Road, BT34 4EU
l Our Lady's Grammar School, Chequer Hill, Newry, BT35 6DY
l St Colman's College, 46 Armagh Road, BT35 6PP
The Southern Regional College has also closed its campuses.
The college said, “Following the Met Office amber weather warning in place due to Storm Chandra, effective from 5.00am to 9.00pm on Tuesday 27 January 2026, the College has taken the decision to close campuses and move to remote teaching in the interest of the safety of our staff and students.”
Local councillors have urged residents and motorists to exercise caution.
Cllr Keith ratcliffe said, “Please take extra care due to Storm Chandra and the severe weather conditions currently affecting our area.
“Serious flooding has again occurred on the Armagh Road, Tandragee, close to the junctions with Cordrain Road and Cooly Hill. This stretch of road is dangerous and difficult to pass.
“ For clarity, this flooding issue was reported by me to DfI last week, after the road had been cleared at that time, and it was reported again first thing this morning due to the situation reoccurring.
“Unfortunately, a number of constituents have already become stuck in this flood. I have personally assisted by lifting those affected and ensuring they got home safely.
“Motorists are strongly advised not to drive through flood water.
“If a road is flooded, do not attempt to cross it — turn around and use an alternative route.
“Please travel only if necessary, remain vigilant, and check in on vulnerable neighbours where possible. Stay safe.
Newry and Armagh MLA Gareth Wilson also urged people to drive with care, addin the “motorway is treacherous this morning especially with spray then diffused light from brake lights on your windscreen! Seen a number of accidents. Leave lots of room in front!
“Lots of trees down across main routes including 14+ trees down on main Armagh/Newry road. Flooding also a big issue especially at known sites - Tandragee/Armagh road and Tandragee/Markethill road. All reported and ongoing… stay safe!”
Cllr Sarah Duffy said, “ I have been made aware of excess flooding in Armagh City, particularly in the following areas: Ballycrummy Road; Nursery Road; Cathedral Road.
“This has been reported.Please avoid the area where possible and take care when travelling.
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Council said, “All our Household Recycling Centres and the Navan Centre are currently closed as a result of Storm Chandra.”
They said, “Due to Storm Chandra and weather warnings for strong winds and rain, there will be disruption to council services and facilities.
“All parks, open spaces and golf courses will be closed on Tuesday 27 January. Subject to site inspections there may be delayed opening following the weather warning.
“During this period of strong winds, visitors are strongly advised to avoid these areas due to potential danger from falling debris.
“All golf courses, forest parks, public parks, play parks, open spaces and caravan parks will be closed on Tuesday 27 January 2026. Subject to site inspections there may be delayed opening following the weather warning.
“During this period of strong winds, visitors are strongly advised to avoid these areas due to potential danger from falling debris.
“We anticipate disruption to some bin collections in the Amber warning areas and will update our service disruption webpage throughout the day.
“All household recycling centres are currently closed, subject to review.
“For more information on the current weather warnings in your area visit www.metoffice.gov.uk
“We thank you for your understanding and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
If you need to report a flood, phone the Flooding Incident Line: phone: 0300 2000 100
During strong winds damage can be caused to trees and power lines. You can report a fallen tree or blocked road online or by phone: 0300 200 7891
Report a power cut online or by phone on 03457 643 643
Emergency Numbers
Emergency Services – 999 or 112
Flooding Incident Line – 0300 2000 100
NI Electricity Networks – 03457 643 643
NI Gas Emergency Services – 0800 002 001
NI Water- 03457 440 088
Housing Executive – 03448 920 901