17-07-2025
Australian golfer competing at The Open brands NI climate ‘craziest' he's seen, prompting response from Barra Best
An Australian golfer competing at The Open in Portrush has expressed his surprise at the unpredictable climate in Northern Ireland, calling it the 'craziest' he's 'ever experienced.'
The 37-year-old, from sunny Queensland, added: 'I'd love to be a weather man here. You just get it wrong all the time.'
His comments resulted in a response from local weatherman Barra Best, who advised the pro golfer to check the forecast in the future.
'Poor Jason Day,' the BBC presenter said in a social media post. 'Clearly didn't pay attention to this morning's forecast.'
It comes as The Open kicks off its first day of the tournament following several days of practice as the top golfers got accustomed to their surroundings.
Northern Ireland also faced its second weather warning in the space of 48 hours yesterday after the Met Office issued a new thunderstorm alert.
The Open saw a wet start to the tournament with showers affecting most of the region with up to 20mm of rain in some places.
A Met Office spokesman said: 'Consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.
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'Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.
'Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.'
This week has seen a noticeable change compared to the soaring temperatures and sunshine of the previous week, with the latest warning coming after a similar alert for thunderstorms was in place on Tuesday.
Highs of 28C were seen in some places as thousands flocked to Twelfth parades across Northern Ireland.
