Heavy rain and gale force winds have been causing problems around the Isle of Man today.

The Clagh Vane estate in Ballasalla was the latest area to lose power. They were cut on Monday due to a lightning strike and the latest fault was in the same region. The majority of homes were reconnected by early afternoon and the remaining 20 properties were expected to be back to normal by 4pm. 

Around 60 homes in Laxey lost their electricity supplies early this morning when power lines were brought down. MEA crews restored the connection at around 10.30am after working for over six hours.

The road at the north end of Douglas promenade, between Summerhill and Port Jack, along with Castletown promenade and Gansey, were all expected to be closed until at least 3pm.

The high tide at lunchtime, combined with the weather conditions, led to waves crashing over the sea defences.

Roads across the Isle of Man have been flooded as drains were overwhelmed by the rain and water flowing off neighbouring fields. Among the areas affected were New Road in Laxey, the main road from Crosby to Union Mills, Bridge Nurseries at St Mark's, Lower Foxdale and Ramsey Hairpin.

Several trees have also been blown over.

Police are advising motorists to only make essential journeys and to be extremely careful as there is debris on the roads. They say headlights should be used in the gloomy conditions and all road users should look out for work crews.

Today's sailings between Douglas and Heysham were cancelled because of the weather.

The next scheduled crossing is today's 7.45pm departure from the Island.