The Met Office has escalated weather alerts by issuing a significant yellow rain warning for twenty-three specific areas across the United Kingdom. This advisory comes as forecasters predict persistent and heavy showers that could lead to serious travel complications and an elevated risk of localised flooding.
Widespread Alert for South West England and Wales
The yellow weather warning is officially in effect from 8am on Thursday morning and will remain active until late afternoon. It encompasses a broad swathe of South West England and the entirety of Wales, indicating a substantial meteorological event.
In its official statement, the Met Office cautioned, "Frequent showers and some longer spells of rain, heavy at times, are likely during Thursday." This alert was formally issued at 4.38am on Thursday, underscoring the immediacy of the situation.
Expected Rainfall Totals and Impacts
Meteorologists are forecasting widespread rainfall accumulations of between 5mm and 15mm within just a few hours. More concerningly, several locations within the warning zone are anticipated to receive as much as 20mm of precipitation.
Such intense rainfall in a short period significantly increases the likelihood of surface water flooding, particularly in low-lying areas or places with inadequate drainage. Commuters and residents are being urged to prepare for potential travel disruption, including slower journey times on roads and possible issues with public transport services.
Full List of Affected Local Authority Areas
The detailed breakdown of areas under the yellow warning is as follows:
South West England:
- Bath and North East Somerset
- Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
- Bristol
- Devon
- Dorset
- Gloucestershire
- North Somerset
- Somerset
- South Gloucestershire
- Wiltshire
Wales:
- Blaenau Gwent
- Bridgend
- Caerphilly
- Cardiff
- Merthyr Tydfil
- Monmouthshire
- Neath Port Talbot
- Newport
- Powys
- Rhondda Cynon Taf
- Swansea
- Torfaen
- Vale of Glamorgan
Residents and travellers in these regions are advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts from the Met Office and to exercise caution, especially during the morning commute when the rainfall is expected to be at its most intense. Local authorities and emergency services are likely to be on standby to respond to any incidents arising from the adverse weather conditions.
