Storm Isha to hit Northern Ireland - Met Office Amber Weather Warning as gusts of 80mph expected this weekend

The forecaster issued a Yellow Weather warning for high winds across the Northern Ireland from noon on Sunday until noon on Monday.

However a relatively rare – and more serious – Amber Warning for wind is also in place for a shorter period, from 6pm on Sunday until 9am on Monday.

The Met Office warns that Storm Isha will bring a spell of very strong winds during Sunday evening into Monday and that disruption to travel and utilities is likely.

It advises that longer journey times and cancellations are likely, because road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected.

There will also probably be some damage to buildings as well as power cuts.

In addition, the forecaster warns of dangers from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties

A Met Office spokesperson said: “Very strong southwesterly winds will develop widely across Northern Ireland, western parts of England, Wales and the southern half of Scotland during Sunday evening. Gusts will frequently reach 50-60 mph, perhaps 70 mph at times in a few locations and, along exposed coastal stretches 80 mph is possible at times.

"During the early hours of Monday winds will turn westerly and affect a wider area of southern Scotland and northern England, before easing through the morning.”

Meanwhile, icy conditions persisted across Northern Ireland on Thursday.

The Met Office said the lowest temperature overnight into Thursday was -6.9 C at Katesbridge in Co Down. Several other weather stations across Northern Ireland recorded several centimeters of snow, it added.

The normal gritting of roads was compromised overnight due to industrial action, which lasted until midnight on Thursday.

As a result, the PSNI reminded motorists to exercise caution. It said: “Many roads throughout the network are untreated, and icy conditions mean driving is hazardous. Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy before you set off, and leave extra time for your journey. Slow down and show consideration for others.”

While neither police nor Trafficwatch NI reported any roads closed on Thursday, 42 schools across Northern Ireland were closed due to adverse weather conditions.