Major rail line closed due to flooding as Storm Ciarán approaches | BreakingNews.ie

Flooding has been reported in parts of Co Down as police urged people against travelling due to an amber warning.

The UK Met Office warning for the North is the second-highest level and covers counties Antrim, Down and Armagh. It began at 9pm on Monday and lasts until 9am on Tuesday.

It forecasts persistent heavy rain leading to flooding and transport disruption, while a yellow warning covers the rest of Northern Ireland until 12pm.

Rail services between Dublin and Belfast were cancelled on Tuesday morning due to flooding between Portadown and Newry.

Irish Rail and Translink said the line was closed until further notice, with bus services in place between Belfast and Newry.

It comes after Newry’s canal burst its banks on Monday evening.

Elsewhere, roads have been closed due to flooding, while in Dromantine, Co Down, approximately 100 sheep had to be rescued on Monday after becoming stranded in a flooded field.

Homes in Rosslare, Co Wexford, were swamped by flooding on Monday, with several residents taken from their properties in an inflatable dinghy.

Met Éireann says spot flooding is expected in Ulster throughout Tuesday morning before clearing slowly northwards. A separate rain warning for Co Kerry will be in place for 24 hours from 12pm on Tuesday.

The forecaster warned of the likely potential of flooding this week, with further rain falling on already saturated lands and high-flowing rivers.

Councillor Jim Codd examines the flooding in the Haven estate in Rosslare, Co Wexford, from a dinghy. Photo: PA

On Wednesday and Thursday, Storm Ciarán is set to bring more heavy rain and strong winds, with Munster and Leinster set to be among areas worst affected.

Stormont’s Department for Infrastructure said police were warning people not to travel while the amber warning is in effect.

It said: “These warnings follow an extremely wet weekend where flooding has already occurred on many roads.

“The persistent wet conditions on saturated ground and with higher river levels this will inevitably lead to more localised flooding. Traffic disruption is possible, and the public are being asked to consider their journeys and take extra care if travel is necessary.

“It may be necessary to close roads or put temporary restrictions in place.”

The Police Service of Northern Ireland said: “Persistent heavy rain will lead to further flooding, and we would ask the public to take steps to minimise risk.

“Please stay at home where possible and do not make unnecessary journeys. If you must travel, please bear the prevailing conditions in mind.

“Reduce your speed and drive with extra caution. Excess surface water could lead to aquaplaning, and there is the potential for cars to get stuck in just a few inches of floodwater. Visibility is likely to be severely reduced.

“Consider the potential risks before you leave. Do not place yourself or others in unnecessary danger.”