The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms across all six counties of Northern Ireland, effective from midday Tuesday until 9pm. The forecaster warns that short-term loss of power and other services is likely, urging residents to prepare in advance.
Preparation advice and expected conditions
The national weather agency advises: "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."
Showers are expected to develop on Tuesday morning, becoming heavy and "locally thundery" in the afternoon. These slow-moving downpours could bring 20 to 30mm of rain within an hour or two.
Additional risks and safety measures
The warning also highlights the possibility of strong, gusty winds and hail with the heaviest showers, which should gradually ease from the west into the evening. Residents are advised to assess flood risks to homes and businesses and check road conditions before travelling.
The Met Office provides safety guidance: "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."
Affected areas
- County Antrim
- County Armagh
- County Down
- County Fermanagh
- County Londonderry
- County Tyrone
Elsewhere, the Met Office forecasts showers in Scotland and western parts of the UK, with heavy rain and thunder in the north, scattered showers and possible thunderstorms in the south, and warm, humid, windy conditions.
