The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for Northern Ireland due to strong winds and heavy rain that may cause disruptions to travel. The warning is in effect between 14:00 (UTC) on Sat 14 Jan 2023 and 03:00 (UTC) on Sun 15 Jan 2023.
According to the Met Office, residents in the affected areas can expect spray and flooding on roads, which may lead to longer journey times. Bus and train services may also be affected, with delays expected for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges. There is also a chance of some short-term loss of power and other services. Additionally, flooding of some homes and businesses is possible.
The Met Office advises residents to take precautions and plan ahead for possible travel disruptions. They also indicate that Westerly winds will increase across Northern Ireland during Saturday afternoon and evening, with gusts of 45-50 mph widely and 55-60 mph in the north, with the chance of a few gusts of 65 mph near the north coast. In addition, showers will become heavy and persistent, particularly in the north and east, with 20-30 mm of rain falling in 3-6 hours, most likely through the evening, with high ground in the northeast possibly seeing 40-50 mm.
The regions and local authorities affected by the warning include County Antrim, County Armagh, County Down, County Fermanagh, County Londonderry, and County Tyrone. The Met Office urges residents in these areas to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
