Hertfordshire, including the town of Borehamwood, is bracing for a period of heavy rainfall as the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning. The warning comes into effect at 9 PM on Thursday, 20th June, and will remain in place until 6 AM on Friday, 21st June. Residents are advised to anticipate challenging conditions, including potential disruption to travel and the risk of localised flooding.
Forecasters predict that persistent rain could lead to difficult driving conditions and delays for those using public transport. The warning covers a significant portion of Southern England, stretching from parts of the South West across to the South East, encompassing London and the Home Counties. The Met Office highlights that some areas could see between 20-30mm of rain over the warning period, with isolated spots potentially experiencing 40-50mm, particularly where thunderstorms develop.
While the immediate focus is on Hertfordshire, the broader picture for the UK indicates a mixed weather pattern. Northern Ireland and much of Scotland are expected to see a largely drier outlook for Thursday and Friday, though scattered showers cannot be ruled out. Wales will likely experience similar conditions to Southern England, with some persistent rain moving across the country, particularly its southern and central regions, contributing to the risk of surface water.
Temperatures across the affected regions of England are expected to remain mild, generally ranging from 12-15 degrees Celsius during the warning period, dropping slightly overnight. Wind speeds are forecast to be light to moderate, typically between 10-15 mph, but could gust higher in heavier downpours. The primary concern remains the volume of rainfall over a relatively short period, which could overwhelm drainage systems and lead to standing water on roads.
Authorities are urging the public to take precautions. Motorists are advised to drive slowly, allow extra braking distance, and be mindful of spray and potential aquaplaning. Pedestrians should exercise caution near drains and areas prone to flooding. It is also recommended to check local flood alerts and travel updates before making journeys during the warning period.
Looking ahead, the Met Office suggests that while Friday morning will see the rain clear, the weekend could bring a mix of sunshine and further scattered showers for many parts of the UK. The emphasis remains on staying informed through official channels for the latest updates on weather conditions and any subsequent warnings.
Source: Met Office