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Chief Minister praises storm response

Friday, 14 February 2014

Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK has praised the work of Government staff in responding to the impact and aftermath of this week’s severe weather.

Crews from the Department of Infrastructure worked through the night on Wednesday to deal with the damage caused by storm force winds and heavy rain.

Nearly 40 trees were brought down in a three-hour period between 7pm and 10pm, as gusts reached speeds approaching 80mph. Some trees disrupted electricity supplies after falling on to overhead power lines.

The DoI coordinated the storm response from its Ellerslie control room, which received approximately 100 calls for assistance between 7pm and midnight.

Twelve two-man teams worked through the peak of the storm to clear roads of debris and ensure there was minimal travel disruption on Thursday morning.

Only the Clanna Road in Sulby remained closed overnight. A large tree brought down power lines and a decision was taken to return to the site during daylight hours to continue the clean-up operation.

During the storms, DoI staff worked alongside colleagues from the Manx Electricity Authority and the emergency services to maintain public safety and keep traffic moving.

The Chief Minister said:

‘While most people were able to heed the advice to stay at home and batten down the hatches, members of our staff were out in the worst of the weather, working through the night to assist householders and deal with storm damage. Their efforts to clear roads and restore power are very much appreciated.’

He added:

‘The recent storms and tidal flooding have brought the work of Government departments and the emergency services into sharp focus. I wish to add my personal thanks to those who have responded in such a professional and effective manner, including residents who have assisted vulnerable members of their communities.’

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