Shipping forecast for the North Irish Sea

Strong to gale force winds.

High pressure over the Azores extends a ridge across the Irish Sea for a time today, while deep low pressure approaches from the west, bringing associated frontal conditions.

West or Northwest 3 or 4, backing West or Southwest this afternoon, then backing and increasing South or Southwest 6 or 7 this evening and at first, occasionally touching gale 8 in places.

Slight, building moderate or rough this evening.

Fair, then rain spreads from the west this evening; heavy and persistent at times tonight.

Good, falling moderate or poor in rain later.

South to Southwest 6 to gale 8, decreasing West 3 or 4 later tomorrow morning or early afternoon, then increasing West or Northwest 4 or 5 later tomorrow evening. Backing and increasing Southwest 5 or 6 overnight into Tuesday.

Moderate or rough, falling moderate.

Spells of rain, heavy at times, gradually clearing from the west.

Moderate or poor in rain, becoming good.