Northern Ireland

Another yellow weather warning forecast across Northern Ireland tomorrow

Water service inspected the sewers yesterday after overnight rain caused flooding in the Orchardville area of south Belfast. Picture by Mal McCann
Water service inspected the sewers yesterday after overnight rain caused flooding in the Orchardville area of south Belfast. Picture by Mal McCann Water service inspected the sewers yesterday after overnight rain caused flooding in the Orchardville area of south Belfast. Picture by Mal McCann

ANOTHER yellow weather warning has been forecast across Northern Ireland after heavy rain caused travel disruption and flooding across several parts yesterday.

The Met Office said weather conditions are likely to deteriorate once again tomorrow with further flooding expected.

It comes after persistent rain overnight caused major problems, particularly in counties Antrim and Down. Heavy showers and gales battered the north with up to 10mm of rain reported in several worst-hit areas.

Flooded roads caused problems for motorists, particularly in Belfast and Lisburn with cars stranded in deep waters on some roads.

In one particular incident, a driver became stuck in flood water on the Laganbank Road close to Belfast city centre and was forced to abandon the car.

Several cars also became stuck in flood water in the Milltown Road area of south Belfast and many major arterial routes, including the citybound lane of the A2 between Belfast and Bangor had to be closed due to flooding.

Other routes affected in Belfast included Dunmurry Lane, Hillhall Road and Stranmillis Embankment, while Dunadry, Carrickfergus, Larne, Ballycastle, Donaghadee and Downpatrick were also impacted by the weather.

Public transport was also hindered by the flood waters with rail and bus services suffering delays.

The Orchardville Avenue area of south Belfast was also severely affected by the flooding with some homes and gardens submerged in water.

Sinn Féin councillor Geraldine McAteer last night said: "Water was at a height of one to two feet in some places, gardens and driveways were flooded as well as garages.

"Many residents had to use sandbags to prevent the flooding from entering their homes.

"The floods were compounded by the fact that the Foul Line nearby overflowed and as a result sewerage flooded into the street and gardens presenting residents with a serious health hazard."

The Met Office said an Atlantic system is expected to reach Ireland tomorrow bringing more strong winds and rain.

It has issued another yellow weather warning for the north between 9am and 9pm and have said more delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport can be expected.