Storm Floris Warning: Gusty Gales and Heavy Rain Disrupt Northern Ireland
Storm Floris warning has been issued as strong winds barrel into Northern Ireland, causing widespread disruption from the early hours of Monday morning.
The Met Office’s yellow weather warning came into force at 6am BST and will last until midnight. Gusts of wind are expected to whip through large parts of the country, with speeds reaching up to 50mph, and even 60mph or more along the north coast and other exposed areas.
“It’s going to be rough out there,” a spokesperson warned. Scotland is bracing for even more severe conditions, where amber warnings remain active. Meanwhile, persistent rain is expected to drench many parts of Northern Ireland during the first half of the day before gradually easing.
Across the border, Met Éireann has also raised yellow wind and rain alerts for Donegal, Galway, and Mayo. With it being a bank holiday in the Republic of Ireland, authorities are urging caution.
“People should expect dangerous travel conditions,” officials stated, citing the risk of fallen trees and hazardous driving.
This marks the first significant storm since Storm Éowyn rocked Ireland and the UK back in January, an event that triggered the rare issuance of a red weather warning for Northern Ireland and, notably, the entire island of Ireland.
To see how the rest of the UK is being affected by Storm Floris, including which regions are seeing the worst of it, have a look at this update on the broader impact across the country.
Public Spaces Shut Across Northern Ireland
As precautionary steps, several local councils across Northern Ireland have taken action, closing down outdoor areas and public facilities.
- Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Council: All parks, forest areas, golf courses, caravan parks, and recycling centres are shut.
- Fermanagh and Omagh District Council: Numerous outdoor spots and public centres are closed, with residents advised to stay away.
- Mid Ulster District Council: All council-managed forest and park locations are off-limits.
- Newry, Mourne and Down Council: Forests, trails, and country parks are closed, and residents are warned to avoid beaches, play parks, and other outdoor spots.
- Mid and East Antrim Borough Council: Temporary closures could occur without notice if conditions worsen.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has also issued its own warning. It strongly advises the public to steer clear of forests and parks on both Monday and Tuesday while high winds persist.
Additionally, local authorities are urging residents to secure their wheelie bins after collection to prevent them from being blown around, potentially damaging vehicles or property.
Storm Floris warning has turned this Monday into a day of weather-watching and caution. With strong gusts, relentless rainfall, and widespread closures, people across Northern Ireland are being told, stay safe, stay indoors, and stay informed.
