The United Kingdom faces continued unsettled weather conditions as forecasters warn of persistent rainfall and potential flooding across multiple regions. A significant yellow weather warning for rain has been issued by the Met Office, active from 5am until just before midnight on Thursday, covering extensive areas of southern England and South Wales.
Widespread Rainfall and Flooding Concerns
Showery rain is expected to affect many parts of the country, with meteorologists highlighting particular concerns about surface water flooding and challenging driving conditions. The warning zone stretches from Chichester in West Sussex all the way to Penzance in Cornwall, encompassing substantial portions of both the south east and south west of England, along with sections of South Wales.
According to Met Office forecasts, the rain moving in from southern directions is likely to become "heavy and persistent" in certain locations during Thursday morning. Accumulations of 10-20mm are anticipated widely by day's end, with some areas potentially receiving more than 30mm of rainfall.
Multiple Regions Affected
The weather service has indicated that flooding of some homes and businesses remains possible within the warning areas, with potential interruptions to power supplies and other essential services. Meanwhile, a separate yellow warning for rain covers part of Scotland from 6pm on Wednesday through to midday on Thursday, where forecasters note that rain combined with melting snow may lead to "travel disruption and flooding" in affected regions.
As of Thursday morning, environmental authorities had implemented 62 flood warnings alongside 145 flood alerts across England, indicating that flooding is considered possible in numerous locations.
Chilly Conditions and Further Outlook
Meteorologist Alex Deakin explained that low pressure systems approaching from the south west will bring "cloud and rain" to many areas, adding that there will be a "chill to most places" on Thursday. In a video update shared on the Met Office's social media channels, Deakin noted that while milder air will push temperatures above average along the south coast, many other regions will experience temperatures one to three degrees below average, feeling even colder due to accompanying winds.
"It will be especially chilly on the North Sea coasts," Deakin stated, continuing: "With more rain tracking northwards hitting the colder air, we will see a bit more snow Thursday and Friday over the hills of northern England and again, into eastern Scotland."
The meteorologist confirmed that Met Office warnings remain in place covering the coming days, indicating that unsettled conditions will persist. "Suffice to say, the next couple of days sees further rain for most of us, and a brisk east or south easterly wind with some shelter in western Scotland, as it has been doing for a while, doing OK for dry and bright weather," Deakin concluded.
Forecasters emphasize that the combination of rainfall, existing ground saturation, and melting snow in some regions creates ideal conditions for surface water flooding, particularly in areas with poor drainage or already elevated water levels. Motorists are advised to exercise additional caution during their journeys, especially in regions covered by weather warnings.
