Multi-agency response as amber weather warning issued for Northern Ireland

A multi-agency emergency response has been activated in Northern Ireland as the region prepares for potential flooding following a newly issued amber weather warning by the Met Office.

Government departments, emergency services, and key infrastructure bodies have been meeting throughout Sunday, 20 July, to coordinate efforts ahead of a forecasted spell of very heavy rainfall.

The amber warning is valid from 11pm on Sunday night until 8am on Monday 21 July, and affects County Down, southern County Antrim (including Belfast), and western parts of County Armagh.

The Met Office warns that a “spell of very heavy rain” may lead to flash flooding, with 50–75mm of rain possible in a short space of time.

Police issue urgent public safety advice

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has echoed the seriousness of the forecast, urging the public to take precautions and to avoid unnecessary travel.

“Multi-agency partners have been meeting throughout today in response to this weather warning,” police said in a statement.

“Very heavy rainfall is expected, with the potential for flooding and serious disruption.”

What to expect

Residents in the warning area are advised to prepare for:

• Spray and flooding causing hazardous driving conditions and road closures

• Fast-flowing or deep floodwater posing a risk to life

• Flooding of homes and businesses, with risk of property damage

• Some communities may be cut off by impassable roads

• Delays or cancellations to train and bus services

• Power outages and service interruptions in some areas

The public is advised to avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary, particularly overnight when conditions may deteriorate rapidly.

“Take extra care if you must travel. Reduce your speed, watch for surface water and never attempt to drive through floodwater,” the police added.

Camping and outdoor events at risk

Those camping or caravanning in at-risk areas are urged to take immediate precautions. Rising or fast-flowing water may pose an acute danger, especially near rivers, streams or low-lying ground.

How to report flooding

• Flooding Incident Line: 0300 2000 100

  
  

  Use this service to report non-emergency flooding – it routes incidents to the correct responding agency.

• Emergency: 999 if life or property is at risk

Additional warnings still in effect

• Amber Warning for Rain:

  
  

  • 23:00 Sunday – 08:00 Monday

  • County Down, southern County Antrim (incl. Belfast), western County Armagh

• Yellow Warning for Rain:

  
  

  • 18:00 Sunday – 18:00 Monday

  • Antrim, Armagh, Down

• Yellow Warning for Thunderstorms:

  
  

  • 12:00 – 20:00 Sunday

  • Fermanagh, Londonderry, Tyrone