Warning: Yellow

To expect: Rain

Affected areas: Northern Ireland

Start time estimate: Tuesday 2am

End time estimate: Tuesday 9pm

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

Heavy rainfall is anticipated to batter the region, approaching the area on Tuesday at around 2am and continuing until 9pm.

The Yellow warning for rain was announced at 11:10am on Sunday, January 25.

A Met Office forecast said: “Outbreaks of rain will spread across Northern Ireland during Tuesday, perhaps falling as snow for a time on high ground, before turning more showery later in the day. Rainfall totals of 15-25 mm are likely fairly widely, with 40-60 mm possible on high ground, especially in eastern areas. Given the saturated nature of the ground, this may lead to some flooding. Rain will also be accompanied by strong east to southeasterly winds, particularly in northern and eastern areas where peak gusts of 40-50 mph are possible inland and potentially 60-70 mph along some exposed coasts.”

What to expect

There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs; There is a small chance of longer journey times or cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected; There is a small chance that some roads and bridges could close; There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage; There is a small chance that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties; A few homes and businesses flooded; Spray and flooding on roads will make journey times longer.

What should you do during persistent rain?

Check if your property could be at risk of flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences. Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus, train and ferry 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 are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. 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 9pm on Tuesday.