Britons are being cautioned about the possibility of heavy rainfall reaching up to 70mm and causing flooding in certain areas of the country. Residents are being urged to prepare an ’emergency kit’ in response to the forecasted adverse weather conditions.
The ongoing showers are exacerbating the situation as the ground is already saturated from the recent severe weather, including Storm Goretti. The arrival of low-pressure systems is expected to bring more unsettled conditions, with rain and potential icy conditions as Arctic air descends southwards.
A yellow weather warning for rain has been issued for parts of southern England on Thursday, indicating a risk of further flooding. The warning is in effect from 9 am until the end of the day, highlighting the possibility of surface water flooding due to heavy rain on already saturated ground.
Residents are advised to assess the risk of flooding to their properties and consider creating a flood plan along with an emergency flood kit. Rainfall amounts of up to 70mm are anticipated, with the exact path of the showers remaining uncertain. The warning covers regions including London, the South East, South West, parts of Wales, and the West Midlands.
The forecast indicates a deepening area of low pressure moving northeastward across England and Wales on Thursday. Rain is expected to intensify throughout the day, potentially leading to accumulations of 20-40mm, with isolated areas likely to experience 40-70mm of rainfall, particularly in parts of southwest England.
The Environment Agency currently has three flood warnings in place for England where flooding is expected, along with 40 flood alerts indicating potential flooding risks. Additionally, a separate yellow warning for ice issued by the Met Office covers significant portions of western and northern Scotland due to the formation of icy surfaces following recent snowmelt and heavy rainfall.
Looking ahead to Thursday to Saturday, the Met Office forecasts further rain with temperatures around average in the south but colder in the north. There is a possibility of heavy rain and strong winds on Thursday night.
Regions affected by the weather warnings include London & South East England, South West England, Wales, and the West Midlands.
