Key Takeaways
- Nearly a month’s worth of rain is predicted to fall across the UK on Monday, with dozens of flood alerts issued across several areas.
- South Wales is expected to see the majority of the bad weather, with an amber alert for rain in place until 9pm indicating a plausible "danger to life".
- Yellow rain warnings are also in effect in parts of south-west and north-west England, as well as central and northern parts of Wales, until 9pm.
- The Met Office has warned of potential flooding, landslides, and disruption to public transport, with houses and offices potentially flooded and communities left stranded.
Introduction to the Story
The Independent is committed to providing high-quality journalism, and with the support of readers, they are able to send reporters to the ground to cover developing stories. This is especially important at a critical moment in US history, where fact-based reporting is essential. The Independent’s reporting is trusted by Americans across the political spectrum, and they believe that quality journalism should be available to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. With the help of donations, The Independent is able to keep their reporting and analysis accessible to all.
Weather Warnings Across the UK
A significant amount of rain is predicted to fall across the UK on Monday, with dozens of flood alerts issued across several areas. South Wales is expected to be the worst affected, with an amber alert for rain in place until 9pm, indicating a plausible "danger to life". The Met Office has warned of fast-flowing or deep floodwater, and residents are advised to be prepared for possible flooding. Yellow rain warnings are also in effect in parts of south-west and north-west England, as well as central and northern parts of Wales, until 9pm.
Expected Rainfall and Flooding
The Met Office has predicted that as much as 120mm of rain could fall over the highest ground of Wales, with 20mm to 40mm expected more widely, and 80mm in some areas. The chief forecaster, Rebekah Hicks, stated that "Heavy rain will move over south Wales from late Sunday and through Monday. Whilst rainfall amounts will vary, the largest accumulations are expected over the highest ground in south Wales and could reach 100 to 120mm through the day." The Met Office has also warned of potential landslides, with a British Geological Survey spokesperson stating that the quantity of rain expected on Monday has previously triggered landslides in Wales.
Previous Rainfall and Ground Saturation
Wales has already seen around 240mm of rain this month, which is above the average for November. England and Wales combined have had 143% of the normal rainfall, according to meteorologists. The ground is already saturated, which will make the impact of the predicted rain more significant. Senior operational Met Office meteorologist Marco Petagna stated that "All areas have seen above normal rainfall, Scotland and Northern Ireland are less of an issue of tomorrow, away from the south-west of Scotland."
Preparations and Warnings
Natural Resources Wales has issued 38 alerts in Wales, warning people to be prepared for possible flooding. The Environment Agency has shared five flood warnings and 44 alerts, suggesting that floods are possible. The Met Office has warned of potential disruption to public transport, with houses and offices potentially flooded and communities left stranded. Residents are advised to quickly get to higher ground if their homes or local areas become flooded. Strong south to south-westerly winds will also accompany the heavy rain, with gales possible around coasts and over high ground.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the UK is expected to experience significant rainfall on Monday, with South Wales being the worst affected. The Met Office has warned of potential flooding, landslides, and disruption to public transport. Residents are advised to be prepared for possible flooding and to follow the warnings and alerts issued by the relevant authorities. With the support of readers, The Independent is able to provide high-quality journalism and keep the public informed about developing stories like this one.
