Amber weather warning issued for Northern Ireland as torrential rain may lead to flash flooding

The Met Office has escalated its weather alert for parts of Northern Ireland, issuing an amber warning for very heavy rain between 23:00 on Sunday 20 July and 08:00 on Monday 21 July 2025.

The warning affects County Antrim, County Armagh, and County Down, where a short but intense period of rainfall is expected to pose a serious risk of flash flooding.

According to the Met Office, “a spell of very heavy rain is expected to affect parts of east and southeast Northern Ireland during Sunday night and at first on Monday morning.”

While the precise northern extent of the heaviest rainfall remains uncertain, forecasters warn that some locations could see 50–75mm of rain in a short space of time.

This amber warning comes in addition to earlier yellow warnings issued for rain and thunderstorms across different parts of the region.

Current Warnings in Effect

• Amber Warning for Rain:

  
  

  • County Antrim, Armagh, and Down

  • 23:00 Sun 20 July – 08:00 Mon 21 July

  • Very heavy rain with potential flash flooding

• Yellow Warning for Rain (same counties):

  
  

  • 18:00 Sun 20 July – 18:00 Mon 21 July

• Yellow Warning for Thunderstorms (Fermanagh, Londonderry, Tyrone):

  
  

  • 12:00 – 20:00 Sun 20 July

Expected Impacts

• Rapid surface water flooding and possible property damage

• Dangerous driving conditions and possible road closures

• Disruption to public transport and delays to rail or bus services

• Increased risk of power outages

• Hazardous conditions for outdoor events or travel

Met Office Guidance

The amber warning signifies increased likelihood of impacts. If travel is essential, ensure extra caution on roads and avoid flooded areas.