The Met Office has issued dire warnings of heavy rain, affecting 14 areas across the UK over the coming days. Saturday evening through to Sunday will see significant disruption in England, Scotland, and Wales as these regions prepare for torrential downpours that could bring up to 80mm of rainfall to higher ground.
Parts of North West England, including Cumbria and Lancashire, are among those under warning, along with sections of Yorkshire and the Humber. Devon and Cornwall in the South West will also experience heavy rain, while Scotland's central belt and parts of the Highlands face similar conditions. In Wales, much of the country is at risk, including Powys, Gwynedd, and the South.
Forecasters predict total rainfall of between 30-50mm in many affected regions, with isolated areas potentially seeing accumulations of 60-80mm. The intense rain will cause localised surface water flooding, making driving hazardous and likely causing delays or cancellations to public transport services, including trains and buses.
Temperatures are expected to remain mild for the time of year, ranging from 8-12 degrees Celsius in warning areas, with moderate winds averaging 10-20 mph. However, stronger gusts up to 30-35 mph may accompany the heaviest rain bands, particularly on exposed coasts and hills.
The Met Office advises the public to be cautious when travelling, checking road conditions before setting off and allowing extra time for journeys. Motorists should also be aware of increased spray and reduced visibility. Those living in flood-prone areas are urged to take preventative measures to protect their properties.
Northern Ireland is largely unaffected by these warnings, with a more settled weather forecast for the weekend, though scattered showers are still possible.