Britons are advised to prepare for heavy rainfall that may result in flooding. The Met Office has urged residents in eight regions to assemble an “emergency kit” to handle potential floods, power outages, and travel disruptions on Thursday morning. Weather alerts, including a rain warning, are effective throughout Thursday, with southern England expected to bear the brunt of the heavy rain and strong winds.
According to the Met Office, there is a likelihood of flooding in some residences and businesses, as well as spray and road flooding leading to hazardous driving conditions and an increased risk of accidents, causing longer travel times.
The suggested “emergency kit” should contain essential items like insurance papers, contact lists, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first aid kit with medications, and supplies for pets and infants.
Although the Environment Agency has not issued any flood warnings or alerts, the Met Office advises individuals in specific regions to prepare essential items before the rain hits on Thursday morning. The areas under the rain weather warning cover London, the Southeast, the Southwest, and the East of England, with partial impact on regions like the West Midlands.
The Met Office further recommends evaluating the risk of flooding to properties, preparing a flood plan and emergency kit if necessary, and checking road conditions, bus and train schedules to minimize delays.
Up to 50mm of rain is forecast to fall within a few hours as a low-pressure system traverses eastward across the UK. Surrey, West Sussex, East Sussex, North Devon, and Cornwall are likely to be the most affected areas. Scotland experienced over 16mm of rain in the Highlands on Tuesday, but a drier day is expected in most regions until the approaching low-pressure system arrives late tonight.
The Mirror reported a separate weather warning for strong winds, with gusts reaching 65-75 mph expected on Thursday afternoon along the North Sea coast, particularly in Lincolnshire and Norfolk.