The Met Office has escalated weather warnings across the United Kingdom, naming nine specific areas that are set to face a prolonged 54-hour storm system. A significant yellow alert for rain has been activated, with forecasters predicting persistent downpours that could lead to localised flooding in vulnerable regions.
Extended Weather Warning in Effect
This yellow weather warning is scheduled to remain in force from 6pm on Wednesday, January 21, through to 11.59pm on Friday, January 23. During this period, intermittent rain is expected to intensify, becoming heavy and persistent, particularly over elevated terrain. The Met Office has emphasised that rainfall accumulations are likely to reach 30-60mm widely across inland areas, with the potential for 80-120mm over the highest ground exposed to brisk southeasterly winds.
Flooding Concerns Amplified
Given the already saturated ground conditions following recent rainfall and snow thaw, there is a heightened risk of flooding in some places. The Met Office stated: "Rain, whilst intermittent at first on Wednesday, will become persistent and heavy over high ground later in the day, continuing into Thursday and potentially Friday." They added that this could lead to some flooding, with additional hazards including strong onshore winds and large waves in coastal areas, where rainfall totals may be smaller but still impactful.
Regions Under the Warning
The alert specifically covers the following UK regions and local authorities:
- Central, Tayside & Fife: Angus, Dundee, Fife, Perth and Kinross, Stirling
- Grampian: Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray
- Highlands & Eilean Siar: Highland
Uncertainty with Snowfall
Adding to the complexity of the forecast, rain is expected to transition increasingly to snow over high ground, especially on Thursday and into Friday. This shift introduces further uncertainty regarding how quickly rivers may respond downstream, potentially exacerbating flood risks as melting snow contributes to water levels.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay updated with the latest Met Office announcements and prepare for possible travel disruptions and property damage due to the severe weather conditions.
