Storm Boelo: Weather warning upgraded to amber for parts of Northern Ireland with authorities issuing closure and cancellation updates
The Met Office has upgraded its Storm Boelo-related weather warning to amber for parts of Northern Ireland over the weekend.
Forecasters say the the strongest winds are expected in the far north of the province from Saturday evening (October 24) and will extend eastwards through Sunday.
The amber warning, which means a higher possibility of disruption, is in place for County Antrim and County Derry/Londonderry from 9pm on Saturday until 9pm the following day.
Warning of widespread gusts of 60 to 70 mph and gusts to 80 mph in exposed coastal areas, the Met Office added: “The strongest winds will initially affect western Scotland and far north of Northern Ireland on Saturday evening and then spread eastwards overnight and through Sunday. High winds will be accompanied by periods of heavy rain and frequent showers.”
The public is advised to expect the following:
- Flying debris is likely and could lead to injuries or danger to life;
- There is a good chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage;
- Some damage to buildings and trees, such as tiles blown from roofs and large branches or trees blown over, is likely;
- Longer journey times and cancellations likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected;
- Some roads and bridges likely to close;
- Injuries and danger to life are likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties.
With a yellow warning is already in place for the whole of the province from 6pm on Saturday, a number of local government authorities are providing updates about event and location impact.
Causeway Coast and Glens Council has cancelled its Halloween event in event in Ballymoney on Saturday.
It has also issued the following advice: “Strong winds may cause fallen trees, damage to buildings, power cuts, travel disruption and dangerous coastal conditions.
"Please take care, secure loose outdoor items, plan ahead for your journeys and stay away from exposed coastal areas during severe conditions.”
And there is similar advice for residents in parts of Mid and East Antrim Borough.
MEA Council stated: The forecast shows that it is mainly areas north of Islandmagee/Larne and could potentially have significant impacts on exposed areas around Cargan, Carnlough and the rural communities in the north-east of the borough. Please be #WeatherAware keep an eye on the weather conditions and forecasts.
"People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It's easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
"Driving in these conditions can be dangerous, for yourself and other road users. If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves.”
Meanwhile, NI Water says Silent Valley Mountain Park in Co Down will be shut from Saturday morning as a safety precaution, and will remain so until Monday morning.
A spokesperson explained: “The decision has been taken in the interest of public safety due to the risk of high winds damaging trees at the site. NI Water would like to thank visitors for their understanding and patience.”