Storm Ciarán is expected to cause flooding in Northern Ireland.

Prior to Storm Ciarán, flooding was reported in Northern Ireland, and more than 70 flood warnings were issued nationwide.

For most of the southeast region of Northern Ireland, including the counties of Antrim, Down, and Armagh, the Met Office has issued an amber warning for rain, the second-highest category. While a yellow warning is in effect for the remainder of Northern Ireland, the national weather service has predicted continuous, heavy rain, which could cause flooding and transportation disruptions.

A canal in the city of Newry, County Down, burst its banks on Monday, causing flooding, which also forced the closure of other nearby roads. About a hundred sheep in Dromantine needed to be rescued earlier on Monday after getting stuck in a flooded field. The Met Office has issued a warning for anywhere from 25 to 50 mm of rain in some areas, with up to 100 mm possible over higher terrain.

People were advised not to travel during the amber warning period by Stormont’s Department for Infrastructure, as increased river levels and continuous wet conditions on saturated ground will unavoidably cause more localised flooding. The public is urged to plan their routes and use extra caution when travelling, as there may be traffic disruptions.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain from Monday through Thursday, and the Environment Agency has issued more than 70 flood warnings throughout the United Kingdom. There will be a concentration of heavy showers in parts of South Wales, Northern Ireland, and Southern and Southeast England. Before strong winds and extended periods of rain begin to develop on Wednesday night into Thursday as Storm Ciarán approaches, Tuesday is predicted to be a shaky but quieter day.