Two storms on the way this week following an amber weather warning
Could bring travel disruption and power cuts across NI ⚠️💨🌲🍃
Last updated 14th Feb 2022
Hold on to your hats, two storms are expected to batter the UK just days apart this week.
Blowing in on Wednesday afternoon, Storm Dudley could could bring with it winds of up to 90 mph. Then on Friday Storm Eunice is predicted to carry heavy rain and snow.
The Met Office has upgraded their initial yellow warning for strong winds to an amber alert,
Forecasters have warned that road, rail, air and ferry services will be affected in the turbulent weather - with some roads and bridges potentially closing.
Paul Gundersen, Met Office Chief Meteorologist, said; “An active jet stream is driving low-pressure systems across the country, both of which are likely to cause some disruption and National Severe Weather Warnings have been issued”.
Storm Dudley
Strong winds will cross Northern Ireland on Wednesday evening, pushing eastward to northern England overnight and through Thursday morning.
80-90 mph wind gusts are possible on exposed coasts and hills of Scotland with 60-70 mph possible further inland. Winds are expected to ease through Thursday afternoon and evening.
Storm Eunice
The next low pressure system will track across central areas of the UK on Friday. Further impacts are expected from very strong winds with 60 – 70 mph gusts possible inland, perhaps even stronger in some places, though the strongest winds and worst-affected areas are uncertain at present.
This system is also expected to bring some heavy rain and there is a potential for some significant snowfall over hills in the Midlands and further north.
What to expect
- Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, and some roads and bridges are likely to close, leading to longer journey times and cancellations
- Look out for fallen trees and damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
- Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
- Injuries and danger to life is likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties
If you're bored and looking for something fun to do this week, check out our list of rainy day activities in Belfast 👇
Visit Titanic Belfast
Titanic Belfast is one of Europe's top tourist destinations...if tourists were allowed! Celebrating the birthplace of the world's most famous vessel, this is the world's largest Titanic museum, with nine interactive galleries. Even walking around the magnificent building outside and onto the slipways is something to behold.
Experience We Are Vertigo
We Are Vertigo is perfect for families who aren't scared of adventure or a little adrenaline rush. Located in the heart of Belfast's Titanic Quarter, you'll find this bustling park filled with Ireland's only indoor skydiving centre and Ninja Master Course. Just outside of the city sits the world's largest Inflata-Park, indoor ski slopes and an alpine themed adventure centre in Newtownbreda. You'll sleep for a week after a trip here!
Park up at Let's Go Hydro's Drive-In Cinema
Sometimes all you want to do on a rainy day is stay inside and watch movies. Well swap the living room for Let's Go Hydro drive-in cinema, you don't even have to take off your slippers. Showing everything from Disney classics to rom-coms and horror films, you can even have snacks delivered straight to your car door.
Hit the ice at Dundonald's Ice Bowl
Swap the puddles outside, for the ice inside. Dundonald Ice Bowl is Northern Ireland's only public Olympic sized ice rink. Just next door is a 30 lane tenpin bowling centre and Indiana Land - a jungle inspired playground for under 12s. No matter the age, there's something to keep you entertained here.
Taste NI's signature produce at St George's Market
You haven't really experienced Belfast until you've sampled some of the local delicacies, and where better to try them out than under the famous St George's Market green roof. The warm Belfast Bap is a must-try!
Test your swing at Lost City Adventure Golf
Could you be the next Rory McIlroy? You'll never know until you try! Lost City Adventure Golf has not just one but two indoor 18-hole jungle themed adventure golf courses, complete with incredible special effects and interactive obstacles. It's fun for all the family!
Step back in time at the Ulster Museum
Located in Botanic Gardens, the Ulster Museum is filled with some of the most enchanting artefacts and historical pieces. From the sparkling space rocks to the real life mummy Takabuti - there's something new for everyone to discover here.
Read more:
7 fun things to do in Belfast when it rains
Best surf spots across Northern Ireland
10 walks to do in Northern Ireland this winter