The Met Office has issued an updated yellow weather warning for heavy rainfall across parts of the United Kingdom, with particular emphasis on the North West of England. The warning, which comes into effect from late Monday and extends through to Tuesday evening, highlights the potential for significant disruption due to persistent and sometimes intense downpours.
Regions within the North West, including Greater Manchester, Merseyside, and parts of Lancashire, are expected to bear the brunt of the adverse weather. Forecasts suggest rainfall totals could reach between 30-50mm quite widely, with isolated spots potentially seeing up to 70-80mm over higher ground within the warning period. This volume of rain falling on already saturated ground increases the risk of localised flooding, particularly in urban areas and near smaller watercourses.
Beyond the North West, other areas of the UK may also experience unsettled conditions, though the most severe impacts are currently anticipated in England's north-western regions. The Met Office advises residents to be prepared for potential travel delays, especially on roads and public transport networks, as surface water flooding could make driving conditions hazardous. There is also a possibility of power cuts and disruption to other essential services.
The warning underscores the need for vigilance, with the Met Office urging individuals to stay informed about the latest forecasts and any subsequent updates. The public is advised to take precautions such as securing loose outdoor items, checking drains and gutters for blockages, and avoiding unnecessary travel through floodwater. The Environment Agency will also be monitoring river levels closely and may issue flood alerts or warnings if conditions escalate.
Temperatures during this period are expected to remain mild for the time of year, typically ranging between 8-12 degrees Celsius in affected areas. Wind speeds are generally forecast to be moderate, around 10-15 mph, but could gust higher in exposed locations, exacerbating driving conditions in heavy rain.