Amber weather warning for NI as Storm Darragh arrives this weekend

Author: Emma DicksonPublished 5th Dec 2024

Storm Darragh has just been named, bringing with it strong winds this weekend across Northern Ireland and the UK.

An amber warning has been issued from 3am to 9pm on Saturday, 7 December.

The Met Office is warning of potentially damaging winds, with inland gusts of 60–70 mph and up to 80 mph along exposed coasts and headlands.

What should I expect?

⚠️ There is a good chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage

⚠️ Probably some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs

⚠️ Longer journey times and cancellations likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected

⚠️ Flying debris is likely and could lead to Injuries or danger to life

⚠️ Some roads and bridges likely to close, with falling trees an additional hazard

⚠️ Injuries and danger to life is likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties

Northern Ireland's five-day forecast 👇

Today: Rain clearing from southeast England and gales easing across northern Scotland, to leave plenty of dry and bright, though breezy weather for a time. Turning wet and windy from the west and northwest from late morning into the afternoon. Mild.

Tonight: Rain clearing away to the east and southeast this evening, leaving clear periods for many overnight. Some showers in the north and northwest. Gales affecting central parts. A patchy frost.

Friday: Mostly dry with plenty of sunshine, and winds easing for a time. A few showers continuing in the northwest. Wet and increasingly windy weather arriving from the west later.

Outlook for Saturday to Monday: Wet and very windy for many on Saturday, with severe gales possible in places. Some snow in the north. Gradually becoming more settled during Sunday and Monday, with winds easing.

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