Rain Alerts Heighten Flood Risk in Southwest England
The Met Office has issued yellow rain warnings for southwest England, raising concerns that already flood-hit areas could face further damage. The alerts, in effect from 12pm today until 9am on Tuesday, cover Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset, where properties may be at risk of flooding due to saturated ground from the recent Storm Chandra.
Forecast Details and Potential Impacts
Meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey explains that a band of rain will gradually push northwards, starting in the Isles of Scilly and Cornwall this afternoon and moving into Devon, Somerset, and Dorset later in the day and overnight. He notes that while rainfall amounts are generally expected to be 10 to 20 millimetres, localised areas, particularly over hills like Dartmoor, could see 50 to 60 millimetres. Mr Vautrey warns that although this rain is not as intense as previous events, it has the potential to exacerbate existing flooding issues, with fast-flowing or deep floodwater posing a danger to life and potentially cutting off communities.
Context of Recent Weather Events
These rain warnings follow yellow ice alerts that were in place on Sunday for southwest England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, ending at 9am today. The Met Office advised road users to be cautious of ice patches on untreated roads. As of this morning, there are 119 flood alerts across the country, with 57 warnings in England, mostly concentrated in Somerset, Dorset, and Wiltshire. Somerset Council has expressed concern that the expected further rain could flood additional homes in areas such as Moorland, Saltmoor, and Currymoor, following a major incident declared last week when about 50 properties were affected by flooding from Storm Chandra.
Broader Implications and Safety Advice
The situation underscores the ongoing vulnerability of these regions to weather extremes, with saturated ground unable to absorb additional rainfall efficiently. Residents are urged to stay informed about local forecasts and heed safety warnings, especially regarding road conditions and potential property damage. The Met Office continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasising the importance of preparedness in the face of unpredictable weather patterns.
