Strong winds on the way this afternoon across NI

A yellow weather warning for strong winds has been issued from 3pm today (Thursday 11th January) to 3am Friday 13th January.

The Met Office has advised that winds will increase from the west during the afternoon, with severe gales developing across Northern Ireland into the evening.

Gusts of 45-55 mph are likely for many, with 65-70 mph gusts possible for exposed coasts and hills.

A statement from the Met Office adds: "As well as the strong winds, some heavy showers are likely, making for some difficult travelling conditions. Large waves could be an additional hazard."

What to expect:

-Some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport are likely

-Probably some bus and train services affected, with some journeys taking longer

-Delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges likely

-Some short term loss of power and other services is possible

-It’s likely that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and/or large waves

Northern Ireland's five-day forecast:

Today: Scattered showers and sunny spells through this morning, however more persistent rain expected later in the afternoon, especially in the north and west. Strong southwesterly winds increasing to gale force for a time. Maximum temperature 8 °C

Tonight: Frequent showers continuing through this evening and overnight. Winds remaining strong during this evening but gradually easing into the early hours. Minimum temperature 3 °C.

Friday: Scattered showers will continue through the morning but becoming increasingly isolated into the afternoon, dry for a time before rain pushes in from the west by evening. Maximum temperature 7 °C.

Outlook for Saturday to Monday: A mix of sunshine and scattered showers over the coming days, showers most frequent on Saturday, increasingly falling as snow on Monday. Strong winds at times.

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• yellow weather warning for wind
• met office