The Met Office has issued a severe weather warning, highlighting the risk to public safety as heavy rainfall and flooding are expected to impact 32 regions, causing potential travel disruptions.
The latest alert from the Met Office covers a period from 6 pm on Monday to 6 pm on Tuesday. The warning emphasizes the likelihood of heavy rainfall leading to possible flooding and travel disturbances from Monday night into Tuesday.
Weather patterns are being influenced by low-pressure systems moving in from the west, resulting in significant rainfall and colder conditions where these systems interact with descending Arctic air. Following a showery Monday, focus is shifting to a developing area of low pressure to the southwest of the UK.
Deputy Chief Meteorologist Steven Keates notes, “A deepening low-pressure system is forecasted to approach the UK from the southwest later on Monday, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds that are expected to impact the UK from late Monday through early Wednesday.”
He adds, “The exact track, depth, and timing of this system remain uncertain, making it challenging to pinpoint the areas most likely to face strong winds and heavy rainfall. As details become clearer, severe weather warnings are anticipated to be issued over the weekend. It is advised to stay updated with the latest Met Office forecasts.”
The upcoming weekend is expected to be rainy, with widespread showers across the country. The Met Office predicts, “Persistent heavy rain from overnight will linger into Saturday, especially in northeastern Scotland. Other regions will experience blustery showers and a brisk south to southwesterly wind.”
The statement continues, “Showers will be most frequent in south Wales and southwest England, with some heavy downpours possibly causing travel difficulties and localized surface water problems. Parts of Northern Ireland, northeast England, and southeast Scotland might see drier weather. Temperatures will be typical to mild, moderated by strong winds in the southern regions.”
Looking ahead to Sunday, more rain is in the forecast, interspersed with periods of drier weather. The national weather agency reports, “Sunday will start off unsettled for many, with a band of rain moving northeastward across the UK. The rain, particularly persistent in the north, will gradually clear, leading to a drier end to the day in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.”