Agencies on standby as yellow weather warning brings risk of flooding across Northern Ireland
- Love Ballymena
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Large waves recorded in Carrickfergus on Thursday afternoon. (Image: Sarah Ellen Photography NI)
Multi-agency emergency partners are on high alert as preparations continue ahead of forecast heavy rain across Northern Ireland in the coming days.
A Met Office Yellow weather warning for rain is currently in place until 11.59pm on Friday 6 February, with further rainfall expected to continue throughout the weekend.
Officials say staff from all relevant agencies are already on the ground, closely monitoring conditions and ready to respond quickly should the weather lead to disruption.
With ground conditions already saturated following recent rainfall, authorities have warned that localised flooding is possible, particularly in East and South Eastern areas and along coastal routes. Drivers and commuters are being urged to exercise caution, as traffic disruption may occur on affected roads.
The Department’s roads and rivers teams have been carrying out checks on drainage infrastructure, while ongoing monitoring of water levels and tides will continue over the coming days. Additional staff are on standby to respond should conditions deteriorate.
Regional Community Resilience Groups have also been briefed on expected weather patterns and advised to make appropriate preparations, reflecting wider concern for communities that may be more vulnerable to flooding, including residents in low-lying or coastal areas.
For many, the impact of flooding can extend beyond road closures, affecting access to work, school runs and essential services. Officials say temporary road closures or traffic restrictions may be required if conditions worsen, and road users are reminded to follow road signs and any temporary traffic lights put in place for safety.
Motorists are advised that if a journey is essential, they should reduce speed, stay well back from the vehicle in front, remain focused, and always wear a seatbelt. Up-to-date traffic information is available via Trafficwatch NI at:
Members of the public are encouraged to report incidents of flooding by contacting the flooding incident line on 0300 2000 100. Calls received by the incident line are passed directly to the relevant responding agency.
Further guidance on preparing for possible flooding, as well as advice on what to do after a flood, is available at:
Advice for road users travelling in all adverse weather conditions can be found at: