The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for heavy rain and potential flooding, warning of a “danger to life” across parts of south and mid-Wales. The alert is in effect from 3 pm on Sunday until 6 am on Monday, covering areas from Newport to Carmarthen and extending north to Brecon.
Severe Flooding Risks and Travel Disruptions Expected
The Met Office warns that “heavy rain is likely to cause significant flooding and disruption” across the affected regions. The most pressing concern is the threat of fast-flowing or deep floodwaters, which could endanger lives.
The weather service has highlighted several potential impacts:
- Homes and businesses are at risk of flooding, with potential structural damage.
- Flooded roads may cut off communities, making travel impossible in some areas.
- Train and bus services could face delays or cancellations.
- Power outages are possible due to flooding and storm damage.
Residents are being urged to take precautionary measures and stay informed about changing conditions.
Environment Agency Issues Public Safety Warnings
The Environment Agency has echoed these concerns, urging residents not to drive through floodwaters. Sarah Cook, the agency’s flood duty manager, stressed the hidden dangers of driving in such conditions:
“Just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car. Floodwaters can be deeper than they appear and can sweep vehicles away in seconds.”
She also advised people to sign up for free flood alerts and keep emergency kits ready in case of sudden evacuations.
The agency has also warned of potential river flooding and surface water flooding in urban areas due to overwhelmed drainage systems.
Additional Weather Warnings Across the UK
In addition to the amber warning in Wales, the Met Office has also issued yellow weather warnings for:
- Rain across parts of England, Scotland, and Wales, starting early Sunday morning.
- Wind in Northern Ireland from 3 am to 3 pm, and for Scotland, Wales, and the north-east and west of England from 6 am to 6 pm.
Zoe Hutin, a meteorologist at the Met Office, described the incoming weather system as “quite severe”, with “very strong winds” accompanying the heavy rainfall.
“Sunday will likely be the worst day of the current weather spell, but conditions should improve into the early part of next week.” — Zoe Hutin, Met Office
Communities Brace for Severe Weather
Local councils in Newport, Carmarthen, and Brecon have activated emergency response teams, preparing sandbags and flood barriers in high-risk areas. Residents are being asked to stay indoors unless travel is absolutely necessary.
Flood-prone areas near rivers and low-lying regions are particularly vulnerable, with officials warning that some areas may be cut off if floodwaters rise rapidly.
Rail operators have already issued warnings of potential service delays and cancellations, particularly on routes passing through south Wales.
Tips for Staying Safe During Flooding
The Met Office and the Environment Agency advise residents to:
- Check for flood alerts in their area.
- Avoid driving through flooded roads.
- Move valuable items to higher ground in case of home flooding.
- Prepare emergency kits, including torches, batteries, non-perishable food, and drinking water.
- Stay updated through the Met Office website and local news outlets.
Looking Ahead: When Will It End?
The severe weather system is expected to move eastward by Monday morning, with conditions improving over the coming days. Forecasters predict a drier and calmer week ahead, though lingering floodwaters may continue to pose challenges in affected regions.
For real-time weather updates, visit the Met Office website or follow local emergency services on social media.
If you witness flooding or dangerous conditions, contact 999 or your local emergency services.
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