The Met Office has issued a yellow thunderstorm warning for six counties in Northern Ireland. The forecaster said: “Heavy rain will affect parts of Northern Ireland, followed by some heavy showers and a few thunderstorms breaking out later this morning and into the afternoon, before clearing eastwards by evening. In some places, these could produce 15-20 mm of rain in less than an hour, with a few spots seeing 30-40 mm in a few hours. Isolated hail and lightning strikes will be additional hazards.”
The warning covers all of Northern Ireland from 11am Tuesday, July 15 until 5pm Tuesday, July 15. The Met Office warned there could be some flooding, while delays to train services were also possible. There could also be some damage to buildings and structures from lightning strikes.
Consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.
Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.
People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
If you find yourself outside and hear thunder, protect yourself by finding a safe enclosed shelter (such as a car). Do not shelter under or near trees, or other structures which may be struck by lightning. If you are on an elevated area move to lower ground.
Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.