The forecaster said isolated hail and lightning strikes will be additional hazards

The weather warning has been issued for WednesdayThe weather warning has been issued for Wednesday(Image: Met Office)

The Met Office has issued a weather warning covering the whole of Northern Ireland.

The yellow thunderstorm alert comes into force at 11am on Tuesday, July 15, and will remain in force until 5pm on the same day.

The forecaster said: “Heavy rain and a few thunderstorms may cause disruption in a few places, especially to travel, with isolated surface water flooding.”

READ MORE: PSNI appeal for victim to come forward after Belfast assaultREAD MORE: Covid Stratus: How to spot new variant with unique symptom

Giving further detail, it added: “Heavy rain will affect parts of Northern Ireland followed by some heavy showers and a few thunderstorms breaking out later this morning and into the afternoon, before clearing eastwards by evening.

“In some places these could produce 15-20 mm of rain in less than an hour, with a few spots seeing 30-40 mm in a few hours. Isolated hail and lightning strikes will be additional hazards.”

What Should I Do? – Advice from the Met Office

Consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.

Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.

If you find yourself outside and hear thunder, protect yourself by finding a safe enclosed shelter (such as a car). Do not shelter under or near trees, or other structures which may be struck by lightning. If you are on an elevated area move to lower ground.

Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter.