Northern Ireland faces severe weather this weekend as Storm Boelo brings damaging winds, with an amber warning in place for the north coast from 9pm Saturday to 10am Sunday. The Met Office says gusts could reach 80mph in exposed coastal areas of County Antrim and County Londonderry, with widespread 60-70mph gusts across the amber zone.

A yellow wind warning covers all of Northern Ireland until midday Sunday. Forecasters warn of potential injuries and danger to life from flying debris, large waves, and beach material thrown onto coastal roads. There is also a chance of power cuts, damage to buildings, and travel disruption.

A further yellow warning for Tuesday from 3am to 11.59pm covers Antrim, Londonderry, and Down. Gusts of 50-60mph are possible widely, reaching 70mph in exposed areas. The Met Office notes uncertainty over the peak intensity and location.

Emergency services and agencies are preparing. The Department for Infrastructure says teams have checked and cleared road gullies, monitored river levels and tidal surges, and deployed temporary flood defences. Regional Community Resilience Groups have been advised to prepare.

Darren Harper, Belfast area commander for the Community Rescue Service, said volunteers are checking vehicles and equipment to respond at short notice. He urged the public to take warnings seriously, avoid flooded roads and paths, stay away from swollen rivers, and never enter flood water.

The PSNI advised motorists to reduce speed, allow extra time, and avoid driving through floodwater. They warned of possible road closures and temporary restrictions.

RNLI Larne urged people to stay a safe distance from the water, as conditions could knock them off their feet or sweep them into the sea. They advised anyone in difficulty to float on their back and call for help, and never enter the water to rescue someone else.

Tree surgeon Callum Kirk, who covers Belfast and Newtownabbey, said he is on standby for fallen trees on driveways or property. He checks and sharpens equipment and responds after the worst of the weather. Roofer Charles Howard said he stocks his van with spare tiles and clears his schedule to handle emergency calls, and advised homeowners to inspect roofs before and after storms.