Torrential rain forecast for Northern Ireland on Monday afternoon and evening

WEATHERMEN are forecasting torrential downpours and localised flooding across some parts of Northern Ireland on Monday.

The Met Office has put a yellow alert in place for the region from early afternoon until 8pm.

Northern areas are likely to be worst affected by the heavy, slow-moving, thundery showers.

The forecaster warns that those showers could bring more than 30 mm of rainfall within just two or three hours – although they should clear later tonight.

“The public should be aware of the potential for localised flooding, with standing water and spray on roads also possible,” say the Met Office.

The Rivers Agency is also warning the public to be vigilant when it comes to flooding.

Said Philip Mehaffey of the Agency: “We’re as well prepared as possible – we’ve been checking infrastructure, making sure we have staff on call and also working with councils to make sure sandbags are available close to at risk areas.

“While the government agencies will do their absolute utmost to protect people from flooding, there are measures that property owners can take themselves.”

Similar weather conditions look likely throughout the week, with Tuesday starting bright but bringing heavy showers in the afternoon.

Flooding can be reported using the Flooding Incident Line on 0300 2000 100.

And if you’ve been taking pictures of the recent lightning or floods, you can add them to our Summer Storms gallery!

Flood Advice

* Move cars, pets, food, valuables and important documents to safety

* Turn off gas, electricity and water supplies if it’s safe to do so

* Try to stop water entering your home by using sandbags and floodboards

* Seal airbricks with plastic covers or cloths/towels

* Put plugs in sinks and baths and weigh them down

* If you don’t have valves fitted which allow flow of water in one direction, you should plug water inlet pipes with towels or cloths and disconnect any equipment that uses water (washing machines, dishwashers, etc)

* Be prepared to evacuate your home