The Met Office has issued an urgent weather warning for heavy rain, cautioning that homes could be destroyed as intense downpours sweep across the UK this week. Forecasters predict up to 60mm (2.3 inches) of rain could fall in just a few hours on Wednesday, an amount equivalent to around half of the average December rainfall for some areas.
Widespread Warnings as Deluge Approaches
The severe weather warning is in place for several regions, with south Wales, parts of Southwest England, and the Midlands expected to bear the brunt of the heaviest rainfall. This comes after significant downpours already hit the country on Monday, saturating the ground and raising the flood risk substantially.
The Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales have already issued dozens of active flood warnings and alerts. Specific concerns are highlighted for areas including the River Towy in south Wales, Dawlish Water in Devon, and the River Crake Valley in the Lake District.
Potential Impact and Official Advice
The Met Office has been stark in its assessment of the potential dangers. Officials state there is a genuine chance that homes and businesses could be flooded, leading to significant property damage. Furthermore, some communities might become temporarily cut off due to flooded roads.
"Check if your property could be at risk of flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit," the Met Office advises the public. They also urge people to check road conditions and public transport timetables before travelling and to prepare for potential power cuts by gathering torches, batteries, and phone power packs.
Context and Extended Forecast
To understand the scale of the predicted rainfall, typical December totals are around 115mm for Swansea and 140mm for Cardiff. The anticipated 60mm in a short period therefore represents a major and concentrated deluge.
The band of low pressure and heavy rain is forecast to move eastwards across the country. It will affect parts of Northwest England, including Cumbria, on Wednesday night before reaching eastern areas by Thursday morning. Thursday is expected to remain wet across much of southern England, particularly in counties like Wiltshire and Hampshire, prolonging the flood threat.
This latest severe weather episode follows Monday's storms, which saw over 60mm of rain fall in Saint Athan, Glamorgan, and more than 55mm in Plymouth, Devon, setting the stage for further saturation and disruption.
