A 500-mile-wide band of heavy rain, forecast by the Met Office, threatens to blanket eight UK regions this Thursday, bringing prolonged wet conditions that could disrupt daily life for thousands. The deluge is expected to move from the south-west of England, through central areas and into parts of Scotland.
The affected regions include Devon, Cornwall, parts of Wales, the North West of England, and sections of Scotland – a vast swathe of territory that will be battered by persistent rain rather than exceptional downpours over short periods. The Met Office warns that while rainfall totals will vary, it's the prolonged nature of the rain that poses the main concern.
Thursday's temperatures are expected to remain relatively mild, between 8°C and 12°C in affected areas, but strong winds could exacerbate conditions, potentially reaching speeds of 30-40 mph in exposed coastal areas and higher ground in the west.
The South West, including Devon and Cornwall, and parts of the North West are set for significant rainfall, while Wales will see widespread wet weather with the rain moving across the country throughout the day. Northern Scotland is particularly vulnerable to the prolonged wet spell, following the system's progression, and Northern Ireland can also expect a share of the rainfall – though perhaps with slightly less intensity than some western UK regions.
The Met Office advises residents to prepare for potential impacts, including increased journey times due to spray on roads and reduced visibility. There is also a risk of localised surface water flooding in areas with poor drainage or where the ground is already saturated from previous rainfall. Residents are encouraged to check local flood alerts and adjust travel plans if necessary, particularly during peak commuting hours.