Storm Amy causes extensive damage and disruption across Tyrone

STORM AMY is continuing to batter parts of Tyrone.

Gale-force winds and heavy rain hit the county earlier today and the harsh weather is expected until tomorrow night.

There have been many reports of local roads being blocked by fallen trees.

In Dungannon, a car was badly damaged when part of a tree fell on it at Mullaghmore Road but there was no report of any injuries.

A tree also fell across John Wesley Street in the centre of Strabane.

Winds of up 71mph were reported in Castlederg.

Many events, including sporting fixtures, planned for the weekend have been cancelled, including the GAA Intermediate and Junior Championship football semi-finals.

A large number of homes have been left without electricity after power cuts.

As a result of the incoming storm, all schools in Tyrone closed at noon today.

While forecasters were saying the worst of the storm has passed, warnings remain in place until midnight on Saturday night.

A spokesperson for Fermanagh and Omagh District Council said people are advised not to visit council outdoor facilities, such as recycling centres or outdoor spaces, during the period of the weather warning.

The following Fermanagh and Omagh District Council facilities and open spaces are  during the period of the warning:

• Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail
• Gortin Glens Forest Park (including scenic drive)
• Lough Navar Forest Drive
• Household Recycling Centres (due to risk of flying debris)
• Forthill Park
• Henry Street Dog Park
• Killyfole Walk
• North Fermanagh Valley Park
• Arleston Dog Park
• St Julian’s Park

Mid Ulster District Council said the following facilities will be closed during the weather warning:

• Dungannon Park, Café and Caravan Park
• Hill of the O’Neill
• OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory

Derry City and Strabane District Council is advising of changes to some services during the weather warning. These are:

• Parks, greenways and play areas will all be closed on Friday and Saturday
• Cemeteries will be closed to the public on Friday and Saturday, except for funerals
• Grass and 3G pitches will all be closed on Friday and Saturday
• All leisure centres will remain open, except Brooke Park Leisure Centre
• Refuse collections will be operating, but expect delays
• Recycling centres will be open but use caution

A council spokesperson said: “We encourage residents and businesses to take necessary precautions. Services will reopen once inspections confirm they are safe.”