UK
UK weather: Flood warnings in place as further heavy rain to bring travel disruption to parts of the country
Heavy rain is expected to bring disruption to parts of the UK with some areas facing the risk of flooding.
A Met Office yellow weather warning for “persistent heavy rain” is in place for parts of Wales and South West England until 5pm on Thursday.
People are being warned of disruption to power supplies with the possibility of flooding to some properties.
Communities could become cut off, while deep floodwater is possible alongside warnings of delays on all transport networks.
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A yellow weather warning is in place for rain until 5pm on Thursday for parts of Wales and South West England. Pic: Met Office
The Met Office said “some higher ground areas may see 70-90mm or more” of rain, bringing the risk of flooding.
Across the UK there are 36 flood warnings in place and 122 flood alerts.
Flood warnings are issued for “expected” flooding, while alerts are given for “possible” disruption.
Saturated ground caused by recent wet weather means that even areas which have avoided the worst of recent heavy rain could be at risk of flooding.
People are being urged to “stay away” from “swollen rivers” and not attempt to drive vehicles through floodwater.
Staff from the Environment Agency (EA) have been erecting flood barriers at several of the most at-risk sites.
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Flood defences in Bewdley alongside the River Severn
This has included the Worcestershire town of Bewdley, which has previously experienced flooding from the River Severn.
Mark Garratt, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, told Sky News the “continued heavy rainfall” in parts of the Midlands and South West England “means that minor localised surface water and river flooding is probable” with the impact “potentially continuing” throughout the week.
He added: “With the ground already saturated, communities in these areas should check their flood risk.
A large number of flood warnings and alerts are in place. Pic: GOV.UK
“The Environment Agency is monitoring flood levels, operating flood gates and barriers at locations across the country, and ensuring debris screens are clear from blockages to ensure communities are better protected.
“We advise people to stay away from swollen rivers and urge people not to drive through floodwater as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.”
Forecasters have said Thursday should be mostly mild but windy, with the prolonged rain in the south in contrast to showers elsewhere.