Nearly 150 flood alerts are in force across the UK today as the Met Office issues severe weather warnings for heavy rainfall and strong winds threatening widespread disruption.
The Environment Agency has activated 141 flood alerts across England alone, with similar warnings issued for Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Yellow weather warnings for rain cover the North West, North East, Yorkshire and Humber, East Midlands, West Midlands, and parts of the South West and South East, with 20-40mm of rainfall expected widely and up to 60mm possible on higher ground.
Strong winds pose an additional threat, with separate yellow warnings covering Northern Ireland, parts of Scotland, and northern England. Gusts of 40-50mph are forecast inland, rising to 60-70mph along exposed coastal areas. The combination of saturated ground and high winds raises the risk of falling trees, power cuts and transport disruption.
Temperatures will remain mild for the season—8-12°C across England and Wales, 5-9°C in Scotland and Northern Ireland—but strong winds will create significant wind chill. The public should secure outdoor items and exercise particular caution on exposed roads and coastal routes.
Residents are urged to monitor local forecasts and flood warnings from the Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales, SEPA, and Northern Ireland's Department for Infrastructure. Motorists should avoid driving through floodwater and be prepared for reduced visibility and standing water. Those at risk of power cuts should ensure torches and mobile phones are charged and readily available.