Eighteen areas across the UK face heavy rainfall and potential flooding on Wednesday, as the Met Office tracks a widespread band of rain sweeping the country that could disrupt transport and trigger localised flooding.
The weather system will bring prolonged moderate to heavy downpours across central and southern England, parts of Wales, and sections of Northern Ireland and Scotland. Formal yellow warnings have yet to be issued for all affected areas, but Met Office weather maps show the scale of the incoming deluge.
England's South West, Midlands, and North West will bear the brunt of the rainfall. Cities including Bristol, Birmingham, and Manchester face saturated ground conditions that will worsen as rain continues. Wales will see significant wet weather, with coastal regions and higher ground particularly at risk from heavier showers.
Northern Ireland will experience continued unsettled conditions, with heavy rain affecting counties including Antrim and Down. Scotland's western regions could see substantial precipitation, though the heaviest downpours will concentrate further south.
Temperatures will remain mild at 9°C to 13°C, whilst moderate winds of 10-20mph are forecast, with stronger gusts up to 35mph possible along exposed coasts. The combination of heavy rain and winds will create challenging driving conditions.
Emergency services advise residents to check local flood alerts, clear drains and gutters where safe, and allow extra journey time. Motorists should drive cautiously, reduce speed, and watch for spray and standing water. Pedestrians must take care near swollen rivers or flood-prone areas.
The Met Office will update forecasts throughout Tuesday and Wednesday morning. Residents in at-risk areas should monitor official Met Office channels and local news for the latest warnings and flood alerts.