The Met Office has placed several regions of the United Kingdom under a yellow weather warning, signalling a period of persistent and at times heavy rain that threatens to cause significant disruption. The alert, which is in force from the early hours of Thursday morning, highlights an increased risk of flooding and difficult travel conditions.
Areas Affected and Timing of the Downpour
The warning covers a substantial portion of southwest England, including the entirety of Cornwall and Devon. It also extends across southern Wales, encompassing areas like Swansea, Cardiff, and Newport. In central England, parts of the Midlands, notably Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Gloucestershire, are included.
The warning is active from 2:00 AM on Thursday, 28th March, until 6:00 PM the same day. Forecasters predict that rain will push northeast across the highlighted regions, becoming particularly persistent over south-facing hills and high ground. The public is advised that 15-25 mm of rainfall is widely expected, with the potential for 40-60 mm to accumulate in some locations, especially over elevated areas.
Potential Impacts and Public Advice
This volume of rainfall in a relatively short period brings a tangible risk of localised flooding. The Met Office has outlined several key hazards associated with the yellow warning. There is a strong chance that spray and flooding on roads will extend journey times, with the possibility of some road closures. Bus and train services may also face delays or cancellations.
Further impacts could include flooding of a few homes and business premises. Some communities may even become temporarily cut off due to flooded roads. Power cuts and a loss of other essential services are also considered possible. The public is urged to check road conditions if driving and to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and travel advice from local authorities.
Broader UK Weather Outlook
While the yellow warning zone faces the brunt of the downpour, the rest of the country is set for a mixed and unsettled week. The forecast indicates that low pressure will dominate, bringing further bands of rain and showers to many areas. Temperatures are expected to remain around average for the time of year, but the persistent cloud and rain will make it feel notably damp and chilly.
Looking further ahead, the Met Office suggests that the unsettled pattern is likely to continue through the Easter weekend, with spells of rain or showers for most. This serves as a reminder that spring weather in the UK can be highly variable, and planning for outdoor activities should be done with a close eye on the latest meteorological updates.
