Forecasters warn more than half a month's rainfall could hit Northern Ireland in less than a day
A weather warning is in place until this evening
Forecasters are warning more than half a month's rainfall could hit Northern Ireland in less than a day as summer storms could bring flash flooding.
A yellow weather warning is in place until 6 this evening (Mon) affecting areas including Belfast, Lisburn and Newry.
Meanwhile while an overnight amber alert is due to end after 8 this morning.
Simon Partridge, a forecaster at the Met Office, said, "It looks like Northern Ireland is the place where we could see the most rainfall and certainly the most impactful rainfall.”
"It could see 50 to 75mm of rain within 12 to 18 hours."
The country records an average of 89mm of rain in July, meaning more than half a month's rainfall could hit Northern Ireland in less than a day.
AMBER WARNING:
An amber alert came has been in force overnight across counties Antrim, Armagh, and Down and lasts until 8 this morning.
The MET Office said, “A spell of very heavy rain is expected to affect parts of east and southeast Northern Ireland during Sunday night and at first on Monday morning.”
“There remains some uncertainty in the northern extent of the heaviest rain, but some places are likely to have 50-75 mm of rain in a short space of time with a risk of flash flooding.”
Speaking about the amber warning, the PSNI said, "Multi-agency partners have been meeting throughout today in response to this weather warning. "
Police are warning to expect possible transport disruption and difficult driving conditions.
"Traffic disruption is possible and road users are advised to consider whether your journey is necessary. Take extra care if you must travel."
"Please reduce your speed because of the possibility of surface water and avoid driving through flood water. It may be necessary to close some roads or put temporary restrictions in place - road users are reminded to adhere to road signs and any temporary traffic lights. Your journey may take longer than normal."
"Those camping and caravanning in the affected areas are advised to take precautions about the risk of fast flowing or deep floodwater."
YELLOW WARNING:
A yellow alert came into force yesterday evening across counties Antrim, Armagh, and Down, and will remain in place until 6 this evening.
The MET Office said, “Heavy rain may cause some flooding and disruption during Sunday night and Monday.”
“A band of rain will become heavy and persistent during Sunday night and Monday, most likely across more eastern and southeastern parts of Northern Ireland. There remains a good deal of uncertainty as to the east-west position of this rain band, but where it does occur some places could see 50-75 mm in 12-18 hours.”
Some roads in County Fermanagh were impassable last night due to flooding
The PSNI said, “Road users are advised the Marble Arch Road, Florencecourt and Sligo Road, Enniskillen are both impassable due to floods this evening (Sun)”
“Flooding is also affecting other parts of west Fermanagh – please take care when travelling, slow down, and exercise caution on affected roads”.