Weather warning in place ahead of Storm Boelo

Strong winds of up to 75mph could cause disruption across parts of Northern Ireland this weekend as Storm Boelo moves in.

A Met Office weather warning has been issued from 18:00 BST on Saturday until 15:00 GMT on Sunday.

Strong westerly winds are expected to become widespread on Saturday evening, with very windy conditions continuing overnight and through much of Sunday.

Gusts up to 60mph (96kph) are forecast widely, while coastal and exposed areas could have gusts reaching up to 75mph (120kph).

The strong winds will come with heavy, blustery showers at times.

Conditions are expected to gradually improve from the southwest during Sunday afternoon as the strongest winds begin to ease.

In light of the warning, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has cancelled its fireworks display at Ballymoney on Saturday.

In statement, the council said: "We understand how disappointing this will be, but the decision has been taken with the safety of visitors, staff and event personnel as the priority."

The Met Office has warned that strong winds could cause disruption to transport networks and essential services.

Power cuts are possible, which could also affect mobile phone coverage and other services.

There is a small risk of damage to buildings, including roof tiles being blown off, while flying debris could pose a danger to the public.

Road, rail, air and ferry passengers could face longer journey times or cancellations, with some roads and bridges potentially closing.

Coastal areas could be particularly vulnerable, with large waves and beach material potentially being thrown onto seafronts, coastal roads and nearby properties.

The arrival of Storm Boelo comes just a day after Storm Austen is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to parts of Ireland.

Storm Austen is forecast to track towards the south coast of Ireland on Thursday evening and into Friday morning, bringing the risk of flooding and travel disruption.

Irish weather service Met Éireann has issued an orange rain warning - the second highest level - for six counties in the Republic of Ireland, including Cork, Dublin, Kerry, Waterford, Wexford and Wicklow.

The Irish weather service has warned of possible flooding, public transport disruption and very difficult driving conditions.

A nationwide yellow warning for rain and wind is also in place from 19:00 on Thursday until 10:00 on Friday.

Although no weather warnings have been issued for Northern Ireland in connection with Storm Austen, widespread rain is expected on Thursday night before clearing eastwards on Friday morning.