Met Office issues yellow weather warning for Northern Ireland as thunderstorms loom

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms expected to sweep across Northern Ireland on Thursday, 12 June, with forecasters warning of the potential for heavy rain, strong winds and localised disruption.

The warning will be in effect from 6:00am to 9:00pm on Thursday, and covers all parts of the region as a band of intense rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms tracks northwards throughout the day.

A spokesperson for the Met Office explained:

“An area of rain will move northwards across Northern Ireland during Thursday, before clearing during the late afternoon and evening.

“The rain will be locally heavy with thunderstorms. A few places perhaps receiving 10-20 mm of rain in an hour, and 30-40 mm in 3 hours or less, leading to a risk of disruption. Winds will also be strong at times, perhaps gusting to 40-45 mph around hills and coasts.”

Potential disruption and travel delays

The yellow warning highlights the risk of flooding on roads, delays to public transport, and interruption to outdoor plans as rainfall intensifies in parts of the country. The Met Office advises the public to take precautions, especially when travelling or planning activities during the warning period.

Gusty winds, particularly around coastal areas and upland routes, may also contribute to travel disruption and minor structural damage.

The combination of saturated ground and stormy conditions increases the risk of surface water flooding, particularly in low-lying or poorly drained areas.