Weather warnings as Storm Amy approaches

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for strong winds affecting Northern Ireland from 3:00pm to 8:00pm on Friday, 3 October 2025.

This warning covers Counties Antrim, Londonderry, Tyrone, and Fermanagh and follows an earlier yellow warning for strong winds and rain that began at 2:00pm on Friday and continues until midday on Saturday, 4 October.

A spokesperson from the Met Office said, “Outbreaks of rain are likely at times on Thursday, becoming heavier and more persistent through the afternoon and early evening, before clearing to the east by Thursday night.

Accumulations of 20-30mm are likely fairly widely, with in excess of 40mm possible over high ground. Given recent wet weather, this may lead to some flooding.

It will also become rather windy for a time later on Thursday afternoon and into the evening, especially in the east with gusts along the coast potentially in excess of 50mph.”

In response to the severe weather forecast, the local council has closed several facilities for the duration of the warning. Ballintoy Harbour, Ballycastle Harbour and Marina, Anderson Park, Riverside Park, Christie Park, Cottage Wood, and Ramore Head will remain closed.

The council strongly recommends that the public avoid visiting any outdoor sites, including coastal areas, beaches, and headlands, until conditions improve. All sites are scheduled to reopen on Saturday afternoon following safety inspections.

The Education Authority has also confirmed that all schools in the amber warning areas — including Counties Antrim, Londonderry, Tyrone, and Fermanagh — were required to close at 12 midday on Friday for the safety of children, young people, and staff. This decision was made after consultation with the Met Office.

The RNLI has issued a safety warning to those living near or visiting coastal areas. Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Water Safety Lead, advised, “Storm Amy is set to bring potentially dangerous conditions so we’re asking the public to stay vigilant.

If you plan to visit the coast or a waterside location, we advise that you stay a safe distance from the water as conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea or water. A visit during weather conditions such as these is not worth risking your life for.”

It has been decided that all schools in the areas effected will be closed today at 12pm.

Updates to follow.