Heavy rain leads to flooding

Heavy rainfall has led to widespread flooding throughout Northern Ireland.

The Tuesday afternoon downpour has particularly affected areas of East Belfast. Connswater Shopping Centre has been flooded, with reports that water poured through ceiling vents. Members of the public were evacuated.

A car was reportedly seen floating in the water at Channing Street off the Castlereagh Road and there were reports of flooding on the Ormeau Road and the Annadale Embankment. Strandtown Primary School and police station have also been flooded.

Many vehicles have been abandoned by motorists and traffic was badly congested for a time.

The Fire and Rescue Service also responded to more than 200 emergency calls in half an hour and they have advised anyone with water in their premises to turn off the electricity at the mains.

Many places in the UK are expected to see further rain, however, the worst affected areas are likely to be Northern Ireland and northern parts of England.

The public have been advised to take care and proceed with caution and police have warned motorists that Montgomery Road, Alexander Road and Ladas Drive are all impassable.

(JM/KMcA)