Met Office issues back-to-back wind warnings as strong gusts forecast across Northern Ireland

The Met Office has issued successive yellow weather warnings for strong winds across Northern Ireland, warning of potential disruption from Sunday through into Monday.

The first warning is in force from 00:00 until 21:00 on Sunday, 11 January 2026, and covers County Antrim, County Down, County Londonderry and County Tyrone.

A second warning follows immediately afterwards, running from 21:00 on Sunday, 11 January, until 12:00 on Monday, 12 January 2026, and applies to County Antrim, County Londonderry and County Tyrone.

According to the Met Office, “a period of strong winds across the north of the UK could bring some disruption on Sunday.” Forecasters say “strong south to southeasterly winds are likely to affect parts of Northern Ireland, northern England and Scotland during Sunday.”

During this first phase, “gusts of 45 to 60 mph could occur quite widely, and especially around exposed coasts and over to and to the north of high ground.”

While the strongest winds are expected in coastal and elevated areas, inland locations could also experience blustery conditions.

The Met Office also noted that “there is potential for gusts of around 70 mph across the Western Isles and Northern Isles,” highlighting the broader strength of the weather system affecting the UK.

Forecasters warned that “the strength of the wind is likely to exacerbate impacts from areas of heavy rain and heavy snow, for which seperate warnings are issued.”

Conditions are expected to intensify on Sunday evening as a second spell of stronger winds develops.

The Met Office said “strong winds may cause some disruption,” with “a spell of strong southwesterly winds likely to develop on Sunday evening.”

Initially affecting southern parts of the warning area, “the swathe of strongest winds will move northwards across the area with time.” Gusts along exposed coasts could reach 60 to 70 mph, with “a small risk of 80 mph in the most exposed locations.”

Inland areas are also expected to be affected, with the Met Office warning that “inland gusts of 40 to 50 mph are likely.”

The prolonged nature of the warnings means communities across Northern Ireland could face difficult travel conditions, fallen trees or branches, and potential disruption to power supplies, particularly in coastal and rural areas.

Residents are advised to stay up to date with the latest forecasts, secure loose outdoor items, and take extra care when travelling during the warning periods.