DERRY is bracing itself for the after affects of Hurricane Ophelia which is set to batter the North of Ireland at the start of next week.
High winds, torrential rain and possibly flooding is predicted as the storm sweeps in from the Atlantic on Monday.
The Met Office has warned: “A spell of very windy weather is likely on Monday in association with ex-Ophelia. Some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport are possible.
“There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage.
“There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles from roofs.
“It is possible that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and/or large waves.
“There is also a small chance that injuries could occur from beach material being thrown onto sea fronts.”
In a statement, the Chief Forecaster said: “Very strong winds are forecast to affect Northern Ireland.
“Southerly winds are most likely to gust between 50 and 60 mph across much of the warning area with perhaps gusts of 70 to 80 mph in more exposed parts.
“These strong winds are forecast in association with the northward track of ex-Ophelia across or near to the west of the British Isles.
“Heavy rain is also possible in association with this system with northwestern UK most prone at this stage.”
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