Drivers urged to take care as 24-hour rain warning hits West Sussex
The Met Office says there could be flooding across the county
Last updated 23rd Dec 2020
Drivers are being urged to take care on the roads across West Sussex as heavy rain is expected to trigger flooding.
A yellow weather warning for downpours is in force for 24 hours, from 6am on Wednesday through until 6am on Thursday (Christmas Eve).
The Met Office says some areas could see up to 70mm of rainfall along with strong coastal gales.
Flooding is expected along with difficult driving conditions and surface water.
What to expect:
There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded, causing damage to some buildings
There is a small chance of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing hazardous conditions
Where flooding occurs, there is a slight chance of delays or cancellations to train and bus services
Spray and flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
There is a small chance that some communities become cut off by flooded roads
What are the Met Office saying?
"Spells of heavy rain are expected across southern and central England as well as parts of Wales during Wednesday and early Thursday.
"The heaviest rain is likely to develop during Wednesday afternoon and continue well into the evening before clearing away southeastwards by Thursday morning.
"The highest rainfall totals look likely to be over parts of East Anglia, the Midlands, southern and eastern Wales and, perhaps, parts of the West Country. Here 20-40 mm rain is likely for many with some places seeing as much as 50-70 mm rain.
"The heavy rain will be accompanied by strong north to northeasterly winds during Wednesday evening and overnight."
What's in the forecast for West Sussex?
Wednesday:
Outbreaks of rain, heavy at times, will move northwards across all parts during the morning. Occasional brighter spells with some heavy showers developing into the afternoon. Further rain arriving into the south coast by evening. Mild. Maximum temperature 13 °C.
Wednesday night:
Cloud and rain, locally heavy, will move back southwards during the evening, gradually clearing overnight. Becoming drier with clear spells. A few coastal showers likely. Windy and feeling colder. Minimum temperature 4 °C.
Thursday (Christmas Eve):
After a cold start, it will be largely dry with sunny spells. Some showers are likely in the east over Kent later. Feeling rather cold in the brisk northerly wind. Maximum temperature 6 °C.
Outlook for Friday (Christmas Day) to Sunday:
A cold and frosty start on Friday, but generally dry and bright. Turning unsettled this weekend, with rain and strong winds spreading southeast. After a milder interlude, turning colder Sunday.