VIDEO: Warning for public as storm lashes seafront

Police are also advising motorists to drive with extreme caution with a combination of heavy rain, strong winds and high tides lasting throughout the weekend.

Sandy Bay in Larne was buffeted by fierce winds on Friday afternoon as waves crashed onto the shore, depositing seaweed and other debris at the side of Chaine Memorial Road.

And in Carnlough, the Main Street was closed on Friday due to flooding, with motorists advised by police to avoid the Coast Road. Diversions were put in place at the junction of Ballymena Road and Coast Road, Glenariff, as well as the junction of Bay Road and Ballymena Road, Carnlough.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service is reassuring the public it is well prepared and well-rehearsed in terms of contingency planning in readiness for the strong possibility of flooding in parts of the province over the coming days.

Chris Kerr, Chief Fire Officer, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, said: “We are working closely with our colleagues in the PSNI and other statutory agencies right across Northern Ireland to assist members of the public.

“I want to also take this opportunity to remind the public that in the event of serious flooding to phone the NI Flooding Incident Line on 0300 2000 100. This is open 24/7 and a member of staff will take your details and contact the appropriate agency on your behalf. If there is a risk to life dial 999 immediately and we will respond.”