The Met Office has issued a rare amber "danger to life" warning for Wales as torrential rain threatens to bring nearly a month's rainfall in just 24 hours. The warning takes effect at midnight on Monday and covers 16 regions across central and south Wales, including Cardiff, Swansea and Newport.
Up to 120mm of rain is forecast for the highest ground, with 20-40mm expected widely across the region and 60-80mm over south-facing hills. Strong southwesterly winds will accompany the deluge, with potential gales around coasts and high ground. The Met Office warned: «Heavy rain is likely to bring some disruption and probable flooding on Monday.»
The timing is particularly dangerous because the ground is already saturated from weeks of above-normal rainfall. November saw 143% of typical rainfall across England and Wales, with some areas recording around 240mm compared to the usual 162mm average.
Landslide risk increases
The British Geological Survey warned that the forecast rainfall amounts have previously triggered landslides in Wales. The agency said: «Records indicate that rainfall amounts similar to those forecast for Monday have previously triggered landslides in Wales. Both natural and infrastructure slopes could be affected within the warning areas, with rainfall falling on slopes that are likely to already be saturated.»
The Met Office added: «In addition to the potential for flooding impacts, this increases the chance of landslides on both natural and infrastructure slopes.»
Expected disruption
Authorities are warning of flooding to homes and businesses, possible power cuts, transport cancellations and some communities being cut off by flooded roads. The amber warning states that «fast flowing or deep floodwater is possible, which could cause a danger to life».
The Environment Agency has issued one flood warning where flooding is expected and 23 flood alerts across affected areas. Yellow rain warnings are also in place for parts of England and southwest Scotland.
Official advice
Richard Preece, Natural Resources Wales' duty tactical manager, urged residents to prepare now. He said: «We are asking people to be alert for potential flooding, with heavy rain predicted overnight on Sunday into Monday morning, especially in parts of South Wales. [...] We're urging people to be vigilant and to make preparations for potential flooding now. We also want to remind people to keep away from swollen riverbanks and not to drive or walk through flood waters as you don't know what lies beneath.»
The Met Office's Marco Petagna noted that Tuesday and Wednesday should see better conditions. He explained: «No warnings are expected to be issued today for beyond tomorrow – it's partly so we don't distract from what could be a significant event for many tomorrow and the weather generally isn't as impactful at this stage for Tuesday and Wednesday, it's brighter, more showery.»
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
