Met Office issues fresh weather warning as heavy rain lashes UK
The Met Office has issued an amber “danger to life” warning for flooding as heavy rains hit England.
South Wales will experience the worst of the weather from late Sunday until Monday night, with 60 to 80mm of rainfall and possible flooding in some areas, the forecaster said.
The warning warns of travel disruptions and power outages for some, and states that fast-flowing or deep flood waters are possible, which could be life-threatening.
Following yellow weather warnings over the weekend, rain and icy conditions are expected in the East Midlands, north-east England, north-west England, West Midlands and Yorkshire & Humber on Saturday.
The weather agency warned that bands of heavy rain could lead to potential flooding and disruption over the weekend and early next week, with up to 50 to 60mm of rainfall and strong winds possible.
Following Saturday’s heavy rain, the Met Office said surface temperatures were likely to drop below freezing on Sunday, creating wet and icy conditions on roads.
The yellow weather warning will come into effect at midnight on Monday and will remain in effect for 24 hours. About 60 to 80 mm of heavy and persistent rain is expected to accumulate, reaching 100 to 120 mm in some areas.
Yellow rain warnings will also come into force at midnight on Monday, with around 20 to 30mm of rain expected across London and south-east England, south-west England, the West Midlands, north-west England, Yorkshire and the Humber. The warnings will be lifted at 03:00 on Tuesday morning.
The Met Office said: “A developing low pressure system moving southwards on Saturday will bring some rain, strong winds and even some hills snow. “Sunday looks drier and brighter for most before more unsettled weather arrives for the start of Advent.
“We will likely see some sleet and snow in higher elevations, particularly around the South Pennines.”
According to the Met Office, the UK weather forecast for next week is as follows:
Today
Cloudy across England and Wales, occasionally heavy, with showers moving towards the northeast, accompanied by strong winds for a while. It’s brighter and cooler for Northern Ireland and Scotland, with a few showers over the mountains.
Tonight
Rain is falling in the North Sea, but strong winds remain in the east. Elsewhere, there are distinct periods of drier weather, leading to widespread frost and some icing.
Sunday
Drier, brighter and colder. The wind will ease in the east, and showers will occur mostly in the north and west. Clouds are increasing in Northern Ireland and it is raining in the evening.
View from Monday to Wednesday
Heavy rain and strong winds will continue until Monday. Sunny and stormy showers are expected on Tuesday and Wednesday; these are most common in the west. Temperatures are close to average.
