The West Country is currently bracing itself for a weekend filled with severe weather as thunderstorms and heavy rain are forecasted to persist until Monday. The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for the region, with areas such as Bristol, Gloucestershire, Somerset, and Wiltshire already experiencing downpours and thunderstorms. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and be prepared for potentially hazardous conditions.
Impacts of the Severe Weather Forecast
The Met Office has cautioned that rainfall amounts of 20-40 mm could occur in less than an hour, with isolated build-ups of 50-80 mm over a few hours. This heavy rainfall poses a significant risk of flooding, lightning strikes, hail, power cuts, and challenging driving conditions. The thunderstorm warning is set to remain in effect until midnight tonight, Saturday, September 21, with a heavy rain warning in place for Sunday and Monday across the affected areas.
Potential Risks and Precautions
The Met Office has highlighted the potential risks associated with the severe weather, including difficult driving conditions due to spray and sudden flooding, delays and cancellations to train and bus services, power cuts affecting homes and businesses, rapid flooding of properties, and dangers posed by fast flowing or deep floodwater. Communities may also face isolation if roads become impassable due to flooding. It is imperative for residents to stay updated on the weather forecast and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Advice from the Met Office
The Met Office has advised that while showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop across southern England and spread northwestwards on Saturday, not all areas will experience these weather events. However, where showers do occur, heavy rainfall of 20-40 mm in less than an hour is possible, with isolated accumulations of 50-80 mm over a few hours. Hail and frequent lightning may also accompany the most intense storms, particularly in parts of the Midlands, western England, and east Wales during Saturday afternoon and evening.
Residents are urged to exercise caution and be prepared for adverse weather conditions. It is crucial to stay informed of any updates from the Met Office and take appropriate measures to protect oneself and property from the potential impacts of the severe weather.
As the West Country braces for a weekend filled with thunderstorms and heavy rain, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and prepared for challenging weather conditions. By heeding the advice of the Met Office and taking necessary precautions, individuals can help ensure their safety and well-being during this period of severe weather.
