The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning, urging the public to prepare for a bout of unsettled conditions as the tail end of ex-Hurricane Erin sweeps across the UK.
The warning for rain is in effect from midnight tonight until 6am on Wednesday for a large swathe of western Britain, encompassing Northern Ireland, Wales, and parts of southwest and northern England.
What to Expect
Forecasters are predicting:
- Spray and flooding on roads leading to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.
- Delays or cancellations to train and bus services where flooding occurs.
- Some homes and businesses could be flooded, causing damage to buildings.
- Power cuts and loss of other services to some homes and businesses are also likely.
While the system will have lost its hurricane status by the time it reaches British shores, it will still pack a punch, bringing a significant amount of moisture and energy. The rain will be heavy and persistent, with the potential for 20-30mm of rainfall widely and up to 60-70mm in some elevated areas.
Gusty Winds to Accompany Downpours
The wet weather will be accompanied by strong winds, with gusts potentially reaching between 45-55 mph in exposed coastal areas and high ground, adding to the travel disruption.
A Met Office spokesperson said: "Although ex-Hurricane Erin will be a shadow of its former self by the time it reaches the UK, it will bring a period of very wet and windy weather to western parts. The focus of the rainfall will be across Wales and northern England, where we have issued a yellow warning."
The public is advised to check the latest forecast and weather warnings before travelling and to allow extra time for journeys. Those in areas prone to flooding should consider taking precautionary measures.
