Heavy Rainfall Triggers Numerous Flood Alerts Across England and Wales
Heavy rainfall has led to widespread flood alerts across England and Wales. The Environment Agency has issued 35 alerts for rivers in England, while Natural Resources Wales has added another 10 alerts. These alerts indicate that flooding could occur.
Weather Warnings Across the Regions
The Met Office has placed a yellow weather warning for rain in several regions, including the East Midlands, North East England, and Yorkshire and Humber. The warning is in effect as of Saturday, with forecasts predicting up to 30mm of rain widely, and up to 60mm possible on higher ground.
Additional Weather Alerts
In addition to the rain, a yellow warning for ice has been declared for parts of northern England into Sunday. Another yellow rain warning is expected on Monday, covering North West England, Hampshire, South West England, and Wales.
- Up to 40mm of rain could fall in places like Derbyshire and Yorkshire and Humber.
- Possible rainfall amounts of 120mm are anticipated over the Cumbrian fells.
- In South West England, areas such as Exmoor and Dorset could receive up to 50mm.
On Monday, an amber warning for rain will be in effect throughout South Wales, where some locations may see 120mm of rainfall.
Impact on Communities
Authorities have warned that homes and businesses could face flooding. Travel disruptions and hazardous driving conditions are also likely. Typically, England and Wales receive just over 100mm of rainfall for the entire month of November.
Feedback from Meteorologists
Jason Kelly, the chief meteorologist at the Met Office, noted, “There is a clear signal for strong winds and periods of heavy rain, which could lead to surface water flooding and delays to road and rail travel.”
The rain is expected to continue impacting North East England on Saturday, potentially falling as snow at higher elevations due to colder air moving from the north. Sunday will likely see drier and brighter conditions, with colder temperatures and gusty winds along some North Sea coasts.
Looking Ahead
The following week is anticipated to be unsettled, with sporadic dry spells expected. Meanwhile, Scotland faced power outages resulting from severe gales. The Met Office had issued a yellow weather warning for wind in regions such as Orkney, Shetland, and the western Highlands.
- Gusts reached 83mph on the Western Isles.
- The Isle of Mull experienced gusts of up to 75mph.
Approximately 1,000 homes on the Isle of Mull lost power due to these conditions, although most have since had electricity restored.
