The Met Office has escalated weather warnings for significant parts of the UK, issuing a yellow alert for heavy and persistent rainfall that is set to batter regions through Tuesday night and into Wednesday.
Residents in Wales and South West England are being urged to prepare for potential flooding and travel chaos as the national forecaster predicts intense downpours. The warning is in effect from 8 PM Tuesday until 8 AM Wednesday, covering a crucial 12-hour period.
Affected Regions and Immediate Impacts
The yellow warning – meaning be aware – spans a substantial area. In Wales, it covers the entire counties of Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire, and Pembrokeshire, along with the southern parts of Powys. In England, the alert extends across Cornwall, Devon, and Somerset.
Meteorologists warn that the heavy rain could lead to:
- Localised flooding of a few homes and businesses
- Spray and flooding on roads, making journey times longer
- Possible interruptions to power supplies and other services
Weather System Analysis
The incoming bad weather is driven by a complex low-pressure system moving in from the Atlantic. This system is expected to stall over the Irish Sea, directing a continuous stream of moisture-laden air towards western Britain.
"The rainfall will be persistent and at times heavy, especially over higher ground," a Met Office spokesperson stated. "We strongly advise people living in the warning areas to check their local flood forecasts and consider any necessary precautions, especially if travelling tomorrow morning."
Broader UK Forecast and Advice
While the most severe warnings are concentrated in the west, much of the UK will experience unsettled conditions throughout the week. Northern Scotland is also bracing for strong winds and showers.
Travel advice for the warning period includes allowing extra time for journeys, not driving through floodwater, and checking road conditions with local authorities before setting out. Homeowners in low-lying areas are advised to ensure that drains and gullies are clear to mitigate flooding risks.
