Three areas in Northern Ireland are under a thunderstorm warning (file pic) (Image: Getty)
The Met Office has issued a new thunderstorm warning for Northern Ireland. The yellow alert is in place from 8.27pm on Thursday, August 27, until 9am on Friday, August 28, with adverse weather conditions potentially bringing flooding and damage to buildings in the three affected areas.
People in counties Antrim, Armagh, and Down can expect heavy rain and thunderstorms over the next few hours, with the chance of some hail and surface water flooding in prone areas. The worst-affected places could see 20mm to 30mm of rain in just three to six hours, the Met Office said.
Areas affected by the warning (Image: MET OFFICE)
It added: “Some flooding of a few homes and businesses possible, leading to some damage to buildings or structures.
“There is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus.
“Some short-term loss of power and other services is possible. Possible some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes. Delays to train services are possible.”
In the event of a thunderstorm, the national weather forecaster recommends finding a safe enclosed place to shelter. If outside, people should not shelter under trees or near other tall structures, as these could be struck by lightning.
If travelling can’t be postponed, people should check road conditions when driving, or bus and train timetables, and amend plans if necessary, the Met Office said.
The thunderstorms could also trigger power cuts, and so people in the affected areas have been urged to gather torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
Thunderstorms, rain, and hail are forecast. (Image: Getty)
If your power goes out, people should switch off all electrical appliances that shouldn’t be left unattended, ready for when it comes back on, but leave a light on, so you know when the power cut has been fixed.
They should also check to see if their neighbours are safe, and whether they have a power cut too.
The Met Office added: “One of the most notable aspects of thunderstorms can be the localised nature of the impacts they could bring.
“In particular, this can be the case with rainfall amounts, with big differences in amounts falling from one place to another and even over very short distances.
“This can make driving conditions very hazardous. Other related hazards include hail, decreased visibility, sudden gusty winds, standing water and of course lightning.”
Regions and local authorities affected:
Northern Ireland
- County Antrim
- County Armagh
- County Down