The Met Office had already urged people to be aware of the risk of localised flooding and said that eastern parts were expected to be worst affected.

Around 20mm of rain could fall in a wide number of areas, while the south-east could see as much 50mm.

Heavy showers had been forecast to ease up a little on Saturday, but the warning now remains in place until Saturday afternoon.

If flooding occurs in your local area, contact the Flooding Incident Helpline on 0300 2000 100 immediately.

Public Health Agency

Although some brighter spells are predicted for Sunday and the start of next week, outbreaks of rain will remain likely at times.

Residents in south Belfast are among those who have already experienced flooding which has caused disruption and damage to property.

SDLP leader Alasdair McDonnell and his colleague Conall McDevitt met with officials from Northern Ireland Water on the issue on Friday afternoon, while Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey has also been in contact with them.

"NI Water have assured me that they have the appropriate levels of staff ready to deal with any further flooding," Mr Maskey said.

"I have also scheduled a meeting with the minister Danny Kennedy for early next week, to explore how he can bring forward the essential remedial work which would greatly reduce the potential for flooding in these areas."

Environment Minister Alex Attwood, who has responsibility for road safety, has urged all road users to be careful and to be particularly aware of the impact the current weather conditions have on visibility.

Respect other road users and respect the prevailing conditions so everyone can get to their destination safely.

Environment Minister Alex Attwood

"First and foremost - slow down. It takes longer to stop or adjust in wet weather," he said.

"Turn your headlights on even in a light rain or in gloomy, foggy or overcast conditions. Not only do they help you see the road, but they'll help other drivers and road users see you.

"Where possible, high-visibility clothing should be worn when walking in such conditions - just because pedestrians can see oncoming vehicles and their headlights, it doesn't mean drivers can see those on foot."

Members of the public are also urged to be aware of the risks posed during flooding incidents by fast-flowing water, possible contamination, or even uncovered manholes.