OVER 2,500 electricity customers across Northern Ireland are without power today after cables were battered by gale force winds.

Northern Ireland Electricity say the worst affected areas are in Tyrone but fears other customers may be also be cut off.

But the worst is not over force customers as the Met Office is predicting wind speeds today of between 70-80 mph from Storm Rachel.

NIE engineers are on the ground presently repairing broken electricity lines and damage to poles and other power equipment caused by flying debris and high winds.

An NIE spokesperson said: “There may also be further faults which have not yet been reported to Northern Ireland Electricity and adverse weather conditions, which could cause additional faults, are due to continue for the next few hours.

“We would like to remind customers that if they do lose electricity supplies they should contact the NIE Customer Helpline on 03457 643 643 or report the fault online at nie.co.uk.

“Customers can also follow us on Twitter @NIElectricity for regular updates.”