Warning: Yellow

To expect: Thunderstorms

Affected areas: Northern Ireland

Start time estimate: Saturday 1pm

End time estimate: Saturday 7pm

The Met Office has announced a Yellow thunderstorm warning for Northern Ireland until Saturday evening.

A Yellow weather warning is in effect during Saturday, starting from around 1pm and running until 7pm. Forecasters say the impacted region can expect to see frequent lightning strikes and heavy rain.

The Yellow alert for thunderstorms was announced at 10:57am on Saturday, July 19.

A Met Office forecast said: “Scattered showers will turn heavier during the morning with the chance of a few thunderstorms. These could bring 15-20mm within an hour in places, with perhaps as much 30mm in a few hours, more likely in the west of the warning area. These showers are expected to ease towards evening.”

What to expect

Some short term loss of power and other services is likely; There is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus; Possibly some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes; Delays to train services are possible.

What should you do during intense thunderstorms?

Consider if your location is at risk of flash 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. 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. 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 thunderstorms will remain in place until 7pm on Saturday.