Northern Ireland weather: Met Office forecasts showers and thunderstorms, bringing 'some disruption' to transport and outdoor events
A yellow weather warning for showers and thunderstorms has been issued for Northern Ireland, bringing some disruption to transport and outdoor events.
The alert will be in place from 12pm until 9pm on Tuesday, August 4.
The Met Office forecasts that showers will develop Tuesday morning, becoming heavy and locally thundery into the afternoon.
Whilst some areas will miss these, where they do develop they will be slow-moving, bringing 20-30 mm of rain in an hour or two. Strong and gusty winds and hail will also be possible with the heaviest showers.
Showers should slowly ease from the west into the evening.
The weather warning is for counties Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Londonderry and Tyrone. The public is advised to expect the following:
- Some flooding of a few homes and businesses is likely, leading to some damage to buildings or structures.
- There is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus. Delays to train services are also possible.
- There will possibly be some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes, and some short term loss of power and other services is likely.
People should consider if their location is at risk of flash flooding, the Met Office warns. If so, they may think about preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.
They also advise to give the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, and amending travel plans if necessary.
Consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items in case of a power cut.
"If you find yourself outside and hear thunder, protect yourself by finding a safe enclosed shelter (such as a car). Do not shelter under or near trees, or other structures which may be struck by lightning. If you are on an elevated area move to lower ground,” the weather agency added.
"Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.”