Warning: Yellow

To expect: Rain

Affected areas: Northern Ireland

Start time estimate: Wednesday 1am

End time estimate: Wednesday 7am

The Met Office has issued a rain warning for Northern Ireland for Wednesday.

The region should prepare for substantial rainfall, starting on Wednesday at around 1am and ending at 7am.

The Yellow warning for rain was announced at 10:33am on Tuesday, October 15.

A Met Office forecast said: “Rain is expected to push north across much of Northern Ireland during Tuesday evening and overnight, clearing from the south on Wednesday morning. The heaviest rain is likely to be across southeastern areas, where 20-30 mm is likely widely. Some high ground of South Armagh and South Down, and particularly the Mournes, could see 50-80 mm.”

What should you do during heavy rainfall?

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. 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 https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/uk-warnings.

What to expect

Spray and flooding on roads probably making journey times longer; Bus and train services probably affected with journey times taking longer; A small chance of flooding of a few homes and businesses is likely; A small chance of some interruption to power supplies and other services.

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 7am on Wednesday.