Met Office issue yellow alert for rain
Honor Criswick, a meteorologist at the Met Office said floods over already saturated ground are likely
Last updated 16th Feb 2024
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for heavy rain across England and Wales, effective from 3:00 PM on Saturday until 6:00 PM on Sunday. The warning covers the whole of England and Wales, with heavy rain expected to move from west to east starting Saturday afternoon.
Honor Criswick, a meteorologist from the Met Office, provided insights into the forecast, stating, "We have a little bit of model uncertainty around the timing of this rain. It may linger for a time or move a little bit quickly. But generally, it looks to clear the southeast by later on Sunday."
Honor also emphasized the risk of heavy rainfall on already saturated ground, potentially leading to flooding in sensitive river catchments.
She told us the warning is not as severe as ones issued during recent storms. Honor clarified, "The warning is not as a result of a storm, but a cold front bringing heavy rain. However, the ground has been saturated from previous rainfall, increasing the risk of flooding."
The warning was issued due to potential flooding impacts
When asked about the areas most at risk, Honor identified low-lying areas and regions near sensitive river catchments. She also mentioned the possibility of heavier bursts of rain over high ground.
In terms of safety advice, she recommends we, "Check property for flood risk and prepare a flood plan and emergency kit. Stay updated on road and public transport conditions to avoid delays." She urged residents to monitor social media channels and the Met Office website for updates or tweaks to the warnings.
With the Met Office's warning in place, residents are advised to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and minimize the risk of flooding-related incidents. Stay informed and prepared to adapt plans accordingly to mitigate any adverse effects of the inclement weather.