Thunder warning for NI over the weekend

A warning has been issued for thunderstorms across parts of Northern Ireland on Saturday, mainly towards the east.

Heavy downpours and lightning could lead to difficult driving conditions, spot flooding, and possible damage to some buildings.

The Met Office yellow alert for Antrim, Armagh and Down is in place from 06:00 BST until 18:00.

The wet weather is expected to arrive early on Saturday morning, moving north and west during the day.

The rain is due to become more showery later in the day, but the risk of thunderstorms will remain, even towards the west.

Rainfall amounts will vary but where the heaviest downpours occur between 15-30mm of rain is likely, with up to 50mm for some within a few hours.

Gusty winds and hail may come with some of thunderstorms, compounding any disruption.

The Met Office is warning that there is a small chance that isolated communities could become cut off because of rising floodwaters.

It has also said that some homes and businesses in the worst hit areas could face fast developing flooding, with an additional risk of structural damage caused by lightning, hail, or strong winds.

There is also a slight risk to life in areas where floodwaters become deep or fast flowing.