Warning: Yellow

To expect: Rain

Affected areas: Northern Ireland

Start time estimate: Sunday 8am

End time estimate: Sunday 3pm

The Met Office has announced a Yellow rain warning for Northern Ireland for Sunday.

The region should prepare for substantial rainfall, starting on Sunday at around 8am and ending at 3pm.

The Yellow alert for rain was announced at 1:44pm on Saturday, December 6.

A Met Office forecast said: “A band of rain will move northeast across Northern Ireland during Sunday daytime. Rainfall amounts will vary from place to place but, while most areas can expect to see 15-20 mm, a few places could see 25-30 mm falling within six hours, this most likely across parts of county Down and higher ground elsewhere. Falling on already very wet ground, this could lead to some disruption to travel and normal activities.”

What to expect

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

What should you do during heavy rain?

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 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 3pm on Sunday.