Met Office yellow weather warning for Northern Ireland as heavy rain forecast

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for Northern Ireland, with the potential for heavy rainfall, flooding, and travel disruption this weekend.

The warning, which covers the period between 12:00 on Saturday 20 September and 03:00 on Sunday 21 September 2025, highlights particular risks for County Antrim and County Down.

According to the Met Office:

“There is a small chance that heavy rain may lead to flooding and travel disruption particularly across County Antrim and County Down.”

Risk of heavy downpours and strong winds

Forecasters say rainfall is likely to develop on Saturday, with spells becoming persistent and at times heavy. Widespread totals of 20–40 mm are expected, with some areas possibly seeing 60–80 mm, much of which could fall in just a few hours.

The Met Office added:

“From late Saturday onwards, increasingly strong, gusty winds and perhaps some thunder will also accompany the rainfall.”

Uncertain weather pattern

Meteorologists have noted some uncertainty in the exact positioning of the heaviest rain.

“There is a chance that the heaviest rainfall could remain to the southeast of Northern Ireland, and any rain will clear to the northeast overnight Saturday into Sunday,” the forecast explained.

Potential travel disruption

The conditions could lead to:

• Surface water flooding on roads and low-lying areas

• Delays to public transport and road travel

• Risk of difficult driving conditions due to spray and flooding

• Possible localised power interruptions if winds strengthen further

Residents are being urged to keep up to date with the latest forecasts and drive accordingly to the weather conditions.