The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning as an intense spell of rainfall expected to deliver nearly a month’s worth of rain within 24 hours sweeps across the UK, marking a soggy start to December.
The amber warning affects parts of Wales, while the rest of the UK is under a yellow warning indicating heavy rain that might cause significant disruptions. Although Birmingham is not currently included in the warnings, a widespread wet Monday morning is forecast nationwide.
Beginning at midnight on Monday, 1 December, residents are urged to prepare for flooding risks throughout the day. Senior Met Office meteorologist Marco Petagna highlighted the severity of the impending weather, stating that up to 120mm (around five inches) of rain could fall in some locations. This amount adds to an already wet November, raising concerns of flooding particularly in South Wales.
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“We expect wet and windy conditions spreading from the west later today leading to a very unsettled day across much of the UK, especially western England, Wales, and southwest Scotland,” Petagna said. “Some areas could receive nearly a month’s average rainfall in just one day, resulting in flooding challenges.”
The heavy downpours are expected to cause widespread disruption, including flooding of roads and possible transport cancellations affecting bus and rail services. South Wales, in particular, faces the brunt of the worst weather from late Sunday through Monday.
Rainfall will vary by region but is anticipated to be persistent enough to increase the risk of landslides on natural land and infrastructures. In preparation, some travel providers like ScotRail have already imposed speed restrictions on vulnerable routes.
Regions covered by yellow warnings in Scotland and England face spray, local flooding, and difficult driving conditions, with some roads potentially closing. Additionally, power outages are a possibility due to the severe weather.
Authorities recommend assembling a flood kit and staying alert to evolving weather conditions to reduce the impact of the expected deluge.