The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for heavy rain across significant parts of the UK, with the unsettled conditions expected to last from the weekend into the start of next week.
Weekend Washout: What to Expect
Forecasters warn that a developing area of low pressure will sweep across southern and central regions on Saturday. This system is predicted to deliver bands of heavy rain and gusty winds, particularly targeting Wales, the Midlands, and southern England.
Significant rainfall totals are anticipated, with 20-30mm expected widely across England and Wales. Some locations could see as much as 50mm, while there is a low chance of 60-80mm falling on high ground.
Jason Kelly, a chief meteorologist at the Met Office, provided further insight, stating: "While the exact track of the low remains uncertain at this time, there is a clear signal for strong winds and periods of heavy rain, which could lead to surface water flooding and delays to road and rail travel."
Travel Disruption and Further Impacts
The public is being advised to prepare for potential travel disruption and difficult driving conditions. There is a chance that homes and businesses could be flooded, with a small possibility that some communities become cut off by flooded roads.
The Met Office has also indicated a slight chance of power cuts and the loss of other services. The heavy rain is also likely to impact outdoor plans for many.
As the system pushes into northeast England on Saturday, some of the precipitation could turn to snow over higher ground as it meets colder air from the north.
An Unsettled Outlook Continues
While Sunday is forecast to be drier and brighter for many, it will feel colder with blustery winds near some North Sea coasts. A widespread frost is expected overnight into Monday.
However, the respite will be short-lived. The Met Office confirms that a fresh Atlantic system will sweep in from the South West at the end of the weekend, bringing further rain and strong winds. Yellow warnings for rain have been issued for Monday and Tuesday, with the heaviest rainfall likely over south and southwest England and South Wales. Gusts could reach gale force along exposed coasts.
The forecaster is closely monitoring the situation and will update forecasts as it evolves, with changeable weather expected to persist through next week.
This new weather warning follows recent severe gales in Scotland, where gusts of up to 83mph left around 1,000 homes on the Isle of Mull without power on Friday morning, although most supplies have since been restored.
