Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has urged people across Northern Ireland to prepare for severe weather ahead of winter, encouraging households and businesses to be flood aware during Flood Awareness Week, which runs from 12–18 October. The Department for Infrastructure will use the week to publish practical tips to help people stay safe and limit flood damage.

Kimmins said: "Around 45,000 homes and businesses are in areas at risk of flooding today across the North and the cost of damage to a property can be tens of thousands of pounds. Flooding can also pose a serious risk to life and have lasting impacts on homes, businesses and communities.

"As climate change increases the likelihood of more frequent and intense rainfall events, preparedness and resilience has never been more important. This year there has been considerable attention on the developing El Niño climate phenomenon, which is expected to influence global weather patterns until it passes in early spring. While we cannot control the weather or prevent all flooding, I want to assure the public that we remain alert and prepared. Our Duty and Flooding Officer Rota operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, ensuring we are ready to respond when required." Dr Will Lang, Met Office Chief Meteorologist, said: "El Niño is one of several factors that influence the UK's weather. While it can increase the likelihood of wetter conditions overall, it is only part of a bigger picture. Weather patterns in the North Atlantic also have a significant influence on the conditions we experience across the Northern Ireland and the UK.

"Our long-range forecast suggests an increased chance of a wetter than average winter, bringing a greater likelihood of periods of heavy rain. However, seasonal forecasts indicate broad weather trends over the season rather than predicting exactly when or where impactful weather may occur. Staying up to date with the latest forecasts and any weather warnings issued by the Met Office can help people, communities and businesses prepare for periods of severe weather should they affect their area."

Kimmins continued: "Alongside our multi-agency partners and Community Resilience Groups, we are flood aware and ready to respond. This Flood Awareness Week we are asking the public: are you?

"Preparing before a flood, and knowing what to do if it happens, can significantly reduce its impact. Taking simple steps now can help protect people, properties and communities while building resilience to future severe weather and help mitigate the problems our changing climate can cause.

"Throughout Flood Awareness Week, my Department will provide information and advice on the steps we can all take to protect ourselves, our families, our homes and our livelihoods from the impacts of flooding."

Further guidance on preparing for and responding to flooding is available at www.nidirect.gov.uk/flooding.