The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for heavy rain across two UK regions, forecasting travel disruption, flooding, and possible power cuts. The alert covers the Highlands and Eilean Siar, as well as Strathclyde, Argyll and Bute, from 5pm on Friday, July 5, until 10am on Monday, July 6.
Heavy Rain Expected
According to the Met Office, the heaviest and most persistent rain will affect the West Highlands from Sunday afternoon through Monday morning. Widespread rainfall of 20-40mm is expected within the warning area, with 50-75mm in mountainous regions and up to 100mm in the most exposed spots. Showers are also forecast for northern England and parts of Wales on Sunday, but the most severe downpours are concentrated in Scotland.
Travel Disruption and Flooding Risk
The yellow warning indicates possible adverse conditions for motorists, including spray and flooding on roads, leading to longer journey times. Public transport services such as buses and trains may also be affected. The Met Office advises people to prepare for potential power cuts by gathering torches, batteries, and mobile phone power packs.
A Met Office spokesperson said: "People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It's easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items."
Timeline and Affected Areas
The warning comes into effect at 5pm Friday, with rain intensifying through the weekend. The heaviest rainfall is expected from Sunday afternoon into Monday morning, easing later on Monday. The affected areas include the Highlands and Eilean Siar, and Strathclyde, Argyll and Bute. The Met Office forecast adds: "It will be a wet spell for the West Highlands, with the heaviest and most persistent rain expected from Sunday afternoon through until Monday morning."
