UK Weather: Heavy Rain Prompts Weekend Washout Warning
Millions of Britons are gearing up for a soggy weekend ahead as the Met Office issues a yellow warning for heavy rain across significant swathes of England and Wales. With flood warnings in place and travel disruptions expected, the forecast paints a damp picture for the weekend.
The Met Office's yellow warning for heavy rain is scheduled from 3 p.m. on Saturday to 9 a.m. on Sunday, encompassing southern England, the Midlands, and much of Wales. Initially covering all of England and Wales, the alert was adjusted as the impacts are now deemed less likely in certain regions.
According to forecasts, the rainfall, originating from the Atlantic, is anticipated to sweep eastwards across the UK, drenching already saturated ground from previous downpours earlier in the week. With as much as 40mm of rain expected to fall, concerns over possible flooding, travel disruptions, and power outages loom large.
The Environment Agency has issued eight flood warnings and 109 alerts in England, while Natural Resources Wales has issued one alert in South Pembrokeshire, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
Adding to the weather woes, unseasonably high temperatures ranging from 14°C to 15°C are anticipated over the weekend, courtesy of mild southerly winds. Forecaster Craig Snell cautioned that the ground in England and Wales is already saturated, making it more susceptible to flooding compared to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Snell further warned of potential disruptions, including delays in transportation and longer travel times on roads due to spray and closures. Looking ahead, the Met Office's outlook for the upcoming week indicates continued unsettled weather, with showers persisting in the north and further rain expected to move southwards.
As the nation braces for the wet and windy conditions ahead, authorities advise citizens to stay vigilant, heed warnings, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this inclement weather spell.
