Thunderstorms, lightning strikes and heavy showers to batter NI | risk of localised flooding and hail covering road surfaces

The NI Weather & Flooding Service say that a Level 1 Warning of Heavy showers/Thunderstorms has been issued for Northern Ireland.

Adding that they are ‘currently experiencing an interruption to our map warning system and as such we are unable to post a warning map, however this warning covers all of NI’.

They add that the warning is valid from 1pm today until 9pm.

“Showers are expected to develop across much of NI this afternoon and evening, some heavy at times along with a risk of thunderstorms developing,” adds the warning.

“Showers/Thunderstorms are likely to be slow moving at times leading to risk of localised flooding and hail covering road surfaces.

“The Showers/Thunderstorms may be hit and miss with some areas staying dry.

“The public should be aware of the risk of localised flooding in places along with hail & possible lightning.

“The public should take extra care if travelling, slow down or stop during heavy downpours and avoid flooded roads.

“Also seek shelter away from trees and open areas during lightning activity.”

A warning issued around the same time by Met Eireann adds that it is a ‘Yellow’ warning for Munster, Leinster & Ulster.

They say it is valid until 10pm this evening.

News of the weather comes as tributes have been paid to a nine-year-old boy who died after being struck by lightning during a football coaching session.

The child was injured when a thunderstorm hit as he was on a playing field in Blackpool on Tuesday evening.

Flowers have been laid and messages of condolence have been written on football shirts left at the scene.

The boy played for Clifton Rangers Junior Football Club, who described him as “an extraordinary young man”.

In a Facebook post, the club said the youngster was “a shining light and an inspiration to everyone that he met” and “a strong, determined and courageous young man, who will be missed by everyone”.

They continued: “We cannot begin to imagine the grief of the family. Our thoughts, prayers, love and hugs go out to them all and to his teammates, friends and coaches who are devastated by the loss.”

The club said it would be working with the FA to support the family and anyone affected by the boy’s death.