The UK is bracing for potential flooding today as a significant amount of rainfall, almost equivalent to a month’s worth, is forecasted to hit various regions within just a few hours. The Southwest of England and south Wales are under a yellow weather warning for heavy rain, with projections of up to 60mm of rainfall in a short period. The Environment Agency has issued flood alerts and is closely monitoring river levels, advising the public to exercise caution throughout the day.
The official warning from the Meteorological Office indicates the possibility of flooding in residential and commercial areas, potential disruptions to power and services, as well as road hazards due to spray and flooding. Regions like Plymouth in Devon and Southampton are likely to receive rainfall levels close to or exceeding their average September totals, making the situation particularly severe.
Concerns are heightened for river areas near Southampton and Hampshire, with the River Axe region in Devon identified as particularly vulnerable. Additional flood risk areas include the River Plym and Tory Brook in Plympton and Bickleigh, where rising water levels could lead to flooding of low-lying areas and roads. The Environment Agency advises vigilance and ongoing monitoring of local weather conditions in these regions.
Thunderous downpours are expected, especially in Wales, with significant rainfall forecasted across most parts of the UK but particularly heavy along the southern coast. This weather shift comes after a period of dry and warm conditions, with temperatures reaching 22.1C in Hawarden, north Wales, just a day prior.
Rebekah Hicks, the chief meteorologist at the Met Office, anticipates heavy rain, strong winds, and potential thunderstorms moving across the country, posing challenges for the first school run post-summer holidays. Coastal areas, especially along the English Channel, may experience gale-force winds reaching up to 50mph, albeit without current weather warnings in place.
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