A fallen tree has blocked the Hannahstown Hill road in Belfast Winds of up to 70mph are expected in Northern Ireland on Thursday, the Met Office has warned.
It said southwest and then westerly winds would increase to severe gale force over some areas from late afternoon onwards.
BBC NI weather presenter Cecilia Daly said winds had already gusted to 63mph in Castlederg in County Tyrone.
She said “severe gales” were “most likely to be in the west, along the north coast and the east Antrim coast”.
The Met Office said there would be rain on Thursday evening, which “would be heavy in places, clearing to passing blustery showers” on Thursday night.
It said “gale force westerly winds would reach severe gale force in places, especially across the west, north coast and Irish sea coast, moderating a little before dawn”.
The Met Office has advised the public to take extra care and refer to TrafficWatchNI for further details on road conditions.
Stena Line said that due to “anticipated adverse conditions on the Irish Sea, it was likely sailings would be suspended later on Thursday afternoon until the early hours of tomorrow”.
Passengers are advised to contact its Ferrycheck number on 08705755755.
Anyone wishing to change their booking to an alternative date can contact reservations on 08447707070.
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