Met Office Issues Urgent 31-Hour Storm Ingrid Warning for 23 UK Regions
The Met Office has escalated its weather alerts, issuing a critical 31-hour yellow warning for Storm Ingrid, which is set to batter parts of the UK with intense rainfall and powerful winds. Residents across 23 specific regions in south-west England and Wales are being urged to prepare emergency kits immediately as the storm approaches.
Impending Danger from Named Storm
Storm Ingrid, officially named by the Portuguese weather service, is predicted to bring a prolonged period of hazardous conditions to the UK over the coming days. The storm is moving in from the south-west and is expected to unleash torrential rain and gusts of up to 60mph, particularly affecting areas with already saturated ground. This follows an earlier amber "danger to life" warning in Scotland, highlighting the escalating severity of weather events across the nation.
Detailed Forecast and Expected Impacts
The Met Office warning is active from 2am on Friday until 9am on Saturday, covering a total of 31 hours. Forecasters anticipate that up to 40mm of rain could fall in some locations, significantly increasing the risk of flooding due to the waterlogged soil. Periods of heavy rain combined with strong winds are likely to cause widespread disruption to travel and potential property damage.
Neil Armstrong, Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, provided a detailed analysis: "An area of low pressure, named Storm Ingrid by the Portuguese national weather service, will bring spells of heavy rain and strong winds across much of southwest England on Friday before easing on Saturday morning. The system is slow-moving but will bring more than 20mm of rain for some which is falling on saturated ground, increasing the chances of impacts."
He further explained: "In addition to rain, large waves and gusty winds are likely, especially along southern coasts, with 60mph peaks possible, with 45-50mph inland."
Essential Advice for Residents
In response to the looming threat, the Met Office has issued specific guidance to help residents mitigate risks. Authorities strongly advise checking if properties are at risk of flooding and preparing both a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. The warning emphasises: "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."
The forecast outlines a two-phase impact: an initial band of rain early on Friday could deposit 10-20mm in just a few hours, followed by a drier interlude. However, further heavy rain and showers are expected to push north through the afternoon, evening, and overnight, adding another 15-20mm widely, with localised totals reaching 30-40mm by Saturday morning.
Regions Under the Warning
The yellow weather warning for wind and rain specifically applies to the following 23 regions, where residents should remain vigilant and take precautionary measures:
- South West England: Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Isles of Scilly, North Somerset, Plymouth, Somerset, Torbay
- Wales: Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Pembrokeshire, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Swansea, Torfaen, Vale of Glamorgan
As Storm Ingrid advances, the combination of saturated ground, heavy rainfall, and strong winds poses a significant threat of flooding and travel chaos. The Met Office advises all affected residents to stay updated with the latest forecasts and heed safety warnings to protect themselves and their properties during this severe weather event.
