The Met Office has raised the alarm for a sodden weekend across parts of the UK, issuing severe yellow weather warnings for heavy and persistent rain. Southern Scotland and Northern Ireland are set to bear the brunt of the downpours, with forecasters warning of potential flooding and significant travel disruption.
The warning for Scotland is in force from 3pm on Saturday until 6am on Sunday, covering Dumfries, Galloway, Lothian, and the Scottish Borders. The public is being advised to prepare for possible flooding of a few homes and businesses, as well as treacherous driving conditions due to spray and standing water on the roads. Bus and train services will likely be affected, with journey times expected to increase.
Across the Irish Sea, a separate warning for Northern Ireland commences later, at 9pm on Saturday, and remains until 10am on Sunday. Counties Down and Armagh, including areas around Downpatrick, are expected to see the heaviest rainfall, with similar impacts anticipated.
What to Expect This Weekend
According to the national forecaster, residents in the affected regions should be prepared for:
- Spray and flooding on roads, making journey times longer.
- Potential delays or cancellations to train and bus services.
- A chance of flooding for some homes and businesses.
- Possible power cuts and loss of other services.
The unsettled conditions are being driven by a typical autumn weather pattern, with low pressure systems sweeping across the Atlantic and bringing bouts of heavy rain and strong winds to the UK.
Staying Safe During the Deluge
With the potential for hazardous conditions, the Met Office is urging the public to stay informed and plan ahead. Check your route before travelling, allow extra time for your journey, and never drive through floodwater, as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move a car.
While the south of England and Wales are expected to see brighter spells and scattered showers, the focus remains firmly on the north and west. This serves as a sharp reminder that the UK is moving firmly into a more volatile seasonal weather period.
