The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for heavy rain and strong winds across large parts of the UK this weekend and into early next week. The warnings cover Saturday through Tuesday, with forecasters predicting potential flooding, travel disruption, and power cuts affecting millions of Britons.
The first warning takes effect at 6am on Saturday, November 29, lasting until midnight. It covers extensive areas including the East Midlands, East of England, London, South East England, South West England, Wales, West Midlands, and Yorkshire. A second warning is in place from midnight Monday until 3pm, focusing on South West England and Wales.
Rainfall amounts are expected to reach 20-30mm widely across England and Wales, with 50mm possible in many places. Over high ground, there is a low chance of 60-80mm falling. Parts of South Wales and the South West could see as much as 80mm accumulate during Monday's deluge.
Strong winds and coastal impacts
Strong winds will accompany the heavy rain, particularly across eastern parts of England on Saturday night. Coastal areas could experience gale-force conditions, with gusts potentially reaching 50-60mph or higher in exposed spots. The strongest winds are expected along English Channel coasts and North Sea coasts.
Chief meteorologist Jason Kelly said: «While the exact track of the low remains uncertain at this time, 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. Rain will also push into north-east England during Saturday, some of which could fall as snow over higher ground when the system meets colder air coming down from the north.»
Weekend weather timeline
The rain is expected to develop across southwest England on Friday night, spreading northeastward during Saturday before clearing into the North Sea by Saturday night. Sunday will bring drier and brighter conditions for many areas, albeit colder, with blustery winds lingering near some North Sea coasts.
Deputy chief meteorologist Steven Keates noted the uncertainty in the forecast: «Confidence is high that the weekend will be unsettled, but there remains some uncertainty over the exact track of the low-pressure system. Small shifts in its path could significantly affect where the heaviest rain and strongest winds occur.»
Overnight into Monday, widespread frost is expected before the next weather system approaches from the South West, bringing further rain and strong winds.
Potential disruption
The Met Office warns of flooding to homes and businesses, potentially causing building damage. Journey times will be extended due to spray and flooding on roads, with possible road closures and difficult driving conditions. Bus and train services may face delays or cancellations.
There is a small chance that some communities will become cut off by flooded roads. Power cuts and loss of other services to homes and businesses are also possible.
A Met Office spokesperson said: «Yellow warnings for rain have been issued and we are closely monitoring developments. Forecasts will be updated as the situation evolves.»
Residents are advised to check if their property could be at risk of flooding and consider preparing a flood plan and emergency kit. The Met Office recommends gathering torches, batteries, and mobile phone power packs in case of power cuts.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
