Warning: Yellow
To expect: Rain
Affected areas: Northern Ireland
Start time estimate: Wednesday 4am
End time estimate: Wednesday 8pm
The Met Office has announced a Yellow rain warning for Northern Ireland for Wednesday.
Heavy rainfall is set to hit the region, beginning at approximately 4am on Wednesday and clearing by 8pm.
The Yellow warning for rain was issued at 7:46pm on Tuesday, February 17.
A Met Office forecast said: “An area of rain, falling as snow over some high ground, will move slowly east across much of Northern Ireland during Wednesday, before tending to ease later in the day. This will be accompanied by strong southeasterly winds which may gust 45-55 mph in places, particularly during the morning. Rainfall totals of 10-15 mm fairly widely, with 20-30 mm in some southern and western areas. Whilst many places will see little if any lying snow, there is potential for several cm to accumulate on higher ground, chiefly above 250 metres, with the main focus being over the Sperrins during the morning.”
What to expect
Some roads and railways likely to be affected with longer journey times by road, bus and train services; Spray and flooding on roads probably making journey times longer; Some interruption to power supplies and other services possible; Flooding of a few homes and businesses is possible.
What should you do during intense showers?
Check if your property could be at risk of flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary. If driving, make sure you have some essentials in your car in the event of any delays (e.g., warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, ice scraper/de icer, a warning triangle, high visibility vest and an in-car phone charger). 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. 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. For further details see Met Office Warnings & Advice.
What is a yellow weather warning?
The Met Office has three categories of weather warning, depending on the likely impact of severe weather and also how likely it is to strike in a particular area.
A yellow warning is issued when weather conditions are expected to disrupt travel and traffic and may impact on daily routines but are not likely to pose a risk to life or property.
An amber warning is more severe and advises people to think about changing their plans to minimise the risk.
A red warning means weather conditions are expected to be dangerous with widespread damage to property and a risk to life, with the public usually advised to avoid travelling.
The Yellow weather alert for rain will remain in place until 8pm on Wednesday.