Met Office warns of flooding risk as bands of heavy rain move across Northern Ireland

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain affecting Northern Ireland, with the potential for localised flooding as heavy rainfall combines with milder temperatures and melting snow.

The warning is in effect from 9.00pm on Saturday 10 January until 9.00pm on Sunday 11 January, covering the entire region.

According to the Met Office, bands of rain will move across Northern Ireland during Saturday evening and throughout Sunday, bringing the risk of flooding in some areas. Rain is expected to spread from the west on Saturday night, before easing temporarily on Sunday morning.

However, forecasters say this brief drier spell is unlikely to last, with further heavy rain expected later on Sunday, increasing the likelihood of disruption.

Rainfall totals of 20–30mm are expected quite widely, while higher ground could see accumulations of between 40–60mm during the warning period.

The Met Office has also highlighted concerns that a turn to much milder conditions will lead to the melting of lying snow, which could further increase the risk of flooding in vulnerable locations.

Low-lying areas, rural communities, and places near rivers and streams may be particularly susceptible, with surface water flooding possible on roads and fields already saturated from recent weather.

Residents are being urged to remain alert to changing conditions, especially those travelling over the weekend, as heavy rain may lead to difficult driving conditions, spray, and longer journey times in some areas.