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Weather warning for rain and thunder as The Open golfers teed off

Barra Best
BBC News NI weather presenter
BBC Weather Watcher A large sign at a green at The Open saying "Weather Warning. Thunderstorm in local area - be prepared". Sun is shining with clouds approaching. People are walking along the green.BBC Weather Watcher
Early arrivals at Royal Portrush were met with wet and blustery conditions but conditions should improve on Tuesday afternoon

A weather warning for heavy rain and thunder was issued across Northern Ireland on Tuesday.

The Met Office warned of possible disruption between 11:00 and 17:00 BST with a risk of flooding due to heavy downpours and thunderstorms.

It was believed that some locations could see up to 40mm of rain within a few hours, with up to 20mm falling in less than an hour in the most intense spells.

Thousands of people were in Portrush to watch the world's top golfers tee off in the official practice session of The Open Championship.

Dark grey clouds covering a golf course leaving a dark shadow. The sea is right next to the course.
The Met Office has warned of possible disruption between 11:00 and 17:00 BST on Tuesday

The Open weather

Early arrivals at Royal Portrush faced wet and blustery conditions.

Wednesday is set to bring a welcome weather improvement, with dry and sunnier weather to make it the most spectator-friendly day of the week.

A return to unsettled weather is expected as the tournament gets under way.

Heavy, and possibly thundery, showers are forecast for Thursday, with similar conditions on Saturday and Sunday.

Friday is expected to offer some brief respite, with fewer showers in the forecast.

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Men including a professional male golfer walk across a golf course carrying equipment. There are spectator standing up on a hill of grass watching them walk past.
The world's top golfers tee off in the official practice session of The Open Championship

Driving conditions

It was predicted that surface spray, standing water and hail could cause difficult driving conditions and longer journey times on Tuesday.

There was also a risk of flooding to a few homes and businesses, which could cause damage to buildings or structures.

The Met Office also warned of short-term loss of power and other services.

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