A yellow warning for rain has been issued for much of Northern Ireland and parts of southwest Scotland. 

The warning is in force all day Saturday as heavy and persistent rain moves in from the west. 

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly said: “Rain is on the way for much of the UK through the weekend with the arrival of low pressure from the west. This will bring periods of heavy rain at times, with the risk of thunderstorms further east.  

“Within the yellow warning area on Saturday, rainfall totals of 30 to 40mm are possible within a three-hour period in some places, with a low risk of between 80 and 100mm in 24 hours for some spots. This brings with it the potential for flooding and travel disruption.” 

A change in the feel of the weather will continue into next week, according to Met Office Senior Presenter Alex Deakin.  

Speaking in the Met Office 10 Day Trend, Alex said: “Meteorological Autumn starts today and for anyone looking for rain in the forecast there is good news. High pressure - which we have become quite accustomed to over the summer - will stay with us for a little longer, but by the weekend conditions will be changing as low-pressure will take the lead for several days, bringing wet and windy conditions. 

“A relatively static area of low pressure will throw bands of showers across the UK during Friday and into the weekend and early next week.” 

Beyond the early part of next week there is still an indication of further rain in the forecast through the week.  

Find out how to stay safe in thunder and lightning as part of WeatherReady. 

Travel advice

During periods of unsettled weather including rain, thunder and gales, National Highways advise motorists to check weather forecasts before travel and carry out vehicle checks such as oil, tyres and coolant levels, so their vehicle is ready for the journey ahead.

According to National Highways, when driving in heavy rain and waterlogged roads, motorists should slow down and keep well back from the vehicle in front. They should also ease off the accelerator, slowing down gradually if the steering becomes unresponsive.  Rain makes it harder for tyres to grip the road and more challenging for drivers to see ahead – significantly increasing the chances of being involved in a collision.    

You can learn more from National Highways about driving in different types of severe weather here.

Find advice from WeatherReady on travelling in wind and rain.