The Open: Warning issued to fans heading to Portrush amid significant weather change

Belfast Telegraph

14-07-2025

The caution comes after warm and sunny weather over the weekend, which saw temperatures soar to 30C in Magilligan, Co Londonderry on Sunday.
Showers are predicted for the majority of the week ahead, which coincides with the tournament in Royal Portrush.
Tuesday, the third day of practice at the Open, will see cloudy skies with some showers and predictions of thundery conditions.
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However, there will be a return to some sunny spells with highs of 21C later in the day.
Wednesday will see dry and sunny spells with highs of 22C.
The first day of competition on Thursday will see a return to the showers, as temperatures will reach a maximum of 22C with some cloud cover. Scattered showers are in store for Friday with some bright spells and highs of 21C predicted.
Practice got underway at the tournament earlier today as star attraction Rory McIlroy was first on the course, before thousands of golfing fans begin flocking to the seaside town.
With a large number of fans heading to Portrush to watch the practice and competition hoping to get a glimpse of the likes of McIlroy and Shane Lowry, police have warned travellers to take extra care.
Visitors have also been urged to avail of public transport for the event, with a Translink strategy having been put in place for those making the journey.
'We are advising road users to be mindful of the change in weather this morning here in Portrush, with more rain on the forecast,' said a spokesperson.
'If you are travelling to The Open today, please take extra care on the roads, as road surfaces are very slippery due to excess water.
'Reduce your speed and give more vulnerable road users such as cyclists and motorcyclists more room than usual, and don't take any risks when overtaking.
'Please also be reminded of the transport options available to you via our partners at Translink, with bus and rail options running again today.
'Remember to take your time and exercise caution. We want everyone to arrive here safely to enjoy their day.'
Meanwhile, officers also reminded the public of an air exclusion zone over Royal Portrush this week for The Open.
The restrictions will be in place from 4.30am to 9pm every day until July 21.
The exclusion zone will restrict the use of drones and aircraft flying below 1,400 above sea level from entering the area above the course.
These restrictions do not apply to police air support units, emergency medical services or those from the maritime and coastguard agency.
'These restrictions, which also cover the use of drones, are necessary to ensure public safety throughout the event,' a police spokesperson said.
'We have already made contact with clubs, associations and societies that we are aware of, who would regularly utilise airspace to ensure they abide by these restrictions.
'It's also worth noting, if you are detected breaching this order and end up with a criminal record, your travel and career prospects will be negatively affected.'