Warning: Yellow

To expect: Rain

Affected areas: Northern Ireland

Start time estimate: Tuesday 7am

End time estimate: Tuesday 10pm

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

Heavy rain is forecast to batter the region, approaching the area on Tuesday at around 7am and lasting until 10pm.

The Yellow warning for rain was issued at 3:46pm on Monday, November 10.

A Met Office forecast said: “A spell of persistent rain is expected to arrive across Northern Ireland early on Tuesday morning, with some heavy bursts developing at times especially during Tuesday afternoon and evening, before the rain clears late on. Widely 20-30 mm is probable over the course of around 18 hours, with some high ground perhaps receiving 40mm or more, eg Mourne Mountains. However, within the broad area of rain there are likely to be periods with heavier bursts containing 10-20 mm over a 1-3 hour period which could cause a few issues such as temporary surface water flooding and difficult travelling conditions. In addition stronger winds are likely to develop along some eastern coasts, adding to the potential for disruption in a few places.”

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; Temporary flooding of a few homes and businesses is possible.

What should you do during intense 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 10pm on Tuesday.