Published Date: 17 January 2009
A FEMALE motorist has been killed after the vehicle in which she was travelling was hit by a falling tree.
News of the death comes as stong gale force winds and heavy rain cause serious disruption across Northern Ireland.
The victim, who is believed to be in her 30s, was travelling on the Strangford road in Downpatrick on Saturday afternoon.
On SatuADVERTISEMENTrday evening, Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) confirmed up to 25,000 homes across the Province had lost power as gusts of up to 80mph were reported.
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As a severe weather warning was isssued by the Met office, police warned commuters only to travel if their journey was essential.
Fallen trees blocked a number of roads and coastal routes were subject to flooding.
In local football, five games had to be abandoned in the JJB Irish Cup due to the atrocious conditions.
Electricity faults were reported in the Craigavon and Downpatrick areas, while Ballyclare, Bangor and Newry were also affected.
"Northern Ireland Electricity emergency teams are on the ground to assess the damage. Once the wind speed has eased and it safe to do so, they will start repairs," an NIE spokesperson said.
Meanwhile, a PSNI spokesman said: "Drivers throughout Northern Ireland are urged not to drive unless necessary and to use extreme care, particularly on rural roads."
The extreme weather is expected to continue on Sunday, with snow and sleet showers forecast.
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