The United Kingdom is preparing for another thoroughly wet and blustery weekend, with forecasters predicting a prolonged nine-hour deluge of heavy rain that threatens to cause significant travel disruption and localised flooding.
Met Office Issues Severe Weather Warning
The Met Office has explicitly warned that the latest spell of unsettled conditions will likely lead to both travel problems and flooding. Chief Meteorologist Matthew Lehnert stated that the UK will see further unsettled weather persisting through the weekend and into the coming week. The situation is exacerbated by already saturated ground from recent rainfall, particularly in western regions.
Timeline and Impact of the Weekend Downpours
The disruptive weather begins on Friday, with further rain and strong, gusty winds moving in from the southwest and spreading nationwide. Coastal gales exceeding 50 mph are expected to develop in some areas. "It’ll be an unpleasant evening rush hour so do leave extra time if you’re out on the roads," advised Mr. Lehnert.
The core of the heavy rain is forecast from Friday into Saturday. The highest rainfall totals, likely between 20-30mm and falling in a concentrated 6 to 9-hour window, are predicted over high ground in:
- South Wales
- Southwest England
- Cumbria
- Southwest Scotland
- Northern Ireland
Areas further north and parts of eastern Scotland could see even higher accumulations, potentially reaching up to 50 mm.
Five-Day Forecast and Further Outlook
The band of rain will push north-eastwards across the country again on Sunday, though significant accumulations in any single location are less likely. Looking ahead to the start of the new week, Monday promises a more settled spell with sunny intervals, before conditions are expected to turn unsettled once more by evening.
Given the severe forecast, residents are urged to check for local flood warnings, allow extra time for journeys, and stay updated with the latest Met Office advice.
