Rain and thunderstorms forecast as yellow weather warning issued

By Cate McCurry, Press Association

A yellow-status weather warning is in effect across the country, with long spells of rain and thunderstorms in parts of the island.

The yellow warning alerts were issued by Met Éireann and began early on Sunday, and will run until midnight.

The forecaster has warned of widespread showers or longer spells of rain, turning heavy at times with possible thunderstorms and localised flooding.

Meanwhile, thousands of people attending Electric Picnic in Stradbally, Co Laois, will be caught in further downpours on Sunday.

Many music fans braved the poor weather in ponchos and sought shelter under tents and trees.

Ailis Harkinson, of Met Éireann, said: “We have widespread showers across the country with some intense downpours and thunderstorms, so a nationwide yellow rain and thunderstorm warning is in place that came into effect at midday and lasts until 9pm this evening.

“There is potential for localised flooding and for outdoor events to be impacted, as well as some hail, lightning and difficult travelling conditions, so do take care when out and about.

“We will see highest temperatures of 17 to 21 degrees with mostly light breezes, but those light winds will become gusty when there are heavy showers around.

“Tonight those showers will ease and become more isolated with clear spells and mostly dry conditions following.

“It will be breezy, though, especially near the Atlantic coasts, with moderate to fresh west to north-west winds and lows tonight of 10 to 14 degrees.

“Tomorrow, a mostly dry start with plenty of sunny spells. It’ll stay mostly dry with continuing sunny spells in much of the south and southeast.

“Highs tomorrow of 14 to 19 degrees with moderate westerly breezes.

“The week ahead will be unsettled with further rain and showers.”

In Northern Ireland, the Met Office has warned of a few showers continuing through Sunday evening, with some heavy and thundery in places.

These showers will slowly ease overnight but the odd one will linger until dawn.