Aftermath of Hurricane Kirk could impact Northern Ireland next week

Unsettled weather is set to develop this weekend, with ex-Hurricane Kirk likely reaching northwest Europe from midweek and potentially bringing disruptive weather for the UK.

Hurricane Kirk is maintaining category 4 strength in the central North Atlantic Ocean. But by the time Kirk potentially reaches waters near the UK, it will have lost its power and be known as ‘ex-hurricane Kirk’.

Speaking about Hurricane Kirk, Deputy Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, Chris Bulmer explains: "Kirk over the North Atlantic will lose its status as a hurricane early next week before being swept towards northwest Europe. The resulting low pressure system will still have the potential to bring disruptive rain and winds to some areas, including parts of the UK, from the middle of next week.

“There remains much detail to work out on the exact track and timing of the system. Across the UK, parts of England and Wales look to have the greatest risk of heavy rain and strong winds during Wednesday and Thursday. However, a more southward track of this system, which is equally plausible at this stage, would see the most disruptive conditions impact France. The need for warnings will be kept under review over the coming days, so it’s important to stay up to date with the latest forecast.”

Northern Ireland's five-day forecast:

This Evening and Tonight: Widely cloudy this evening with some patchy light rain. The rest of the night will remain cloudy with mainly just the odd spot of rain, but perhaps some heavier outbreaks towards Fermanagh and Tyrone. Brisk southerly winds. Minimum temperature 11 °C.

Saturday: Another rather cloudy day with rain, occasionally heavy, spreading east through the afternoon and evening. Fresh to strong southerly winds. Maximum temperature 15 °C.

Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday: Cloudy with occasional rain on Sunday, heavy for a time, before becoming drier by evening. Brighter with scattered showers on Monday and Tuesday, heavy at times.

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