The Met Office issued yellow rain alerts for several regions of the Reino Unido this Friday (28). Intense rainfall is expected to begin at midnight from Sunday to Monday. South of Gales and southwest of Inglaterra will face the most severe conditions.
Up to 80mm of rain is expected in 15 hours in some areas. Ventos strong, which can reach gale force, will accompany the precipitation. The phenomenon is expected to cause disruption on roads and public transport.
Meteorological authorities highlight the risk of flooding in urban and rural areas. The alert covers the southwest to the southeast of the country. The population was advised to avoid unnecessary travel during the critical period.
First alerts begin on Saturday
The first wave of intense rain begins at 6 am on Saturday (29). The warning covers East Midlands, east of Inglaterra, Londres and Yorkshire. Precipitation is expected to last until midnight on the same day.
- Regions affected on Saturday: East Midlands, east of Inglaterra, Londres, south of Inglaterra
- Expected volumes: 20-30mm in most areas, up to 50mm in some locations
- Main risks: Acúmulo of water on roads and transport delays
Chief meteorologist Jason Kelly warned of the possibility of snow in high-lying areas of northeast England. The mixing of cold air from the north with precipitation can generate this condition. Strong winds are expected to intensify especially in coastal regions.
Monday records precipitation peaks
Monday (December 1st) will concentrate the highest volumes of rain. The alert in the southwest and País of Gales is in effect from 00:00 to 15:00. In the southeast, the rains begin at 8 am and last until 6 am on Tuesday.
The Met Office predicts 50-60mm of precipitation in North and South Downs. Essas amounts represent almost two months of average rainfall in a single day. Relief areas must record the highest accumulations.
Main concerns for Monday:
- Flash floods in urban areas
- Significant delays on trains and buses
- Possible interruptions in power supply
- Accumulation of water on main highways
Emergency services are on high alert in the most vulnerable regions. Equipes drains were positioned at critical points. The population received specific safety guidelines.
Specific conditions by region
Country of Gales (south): the region should receive the highest volumes of precipitation. Até 80mm is expected in 15 hours. Coastal areas will face winds of up to 80 km/h. Important Rios can quickly spill over.
Southwest of Inglaterra: cities like Bristol and Exeter are at the epicenter of the alert. Urban infrastructures have known vulnerabilities. Sistemas drain may not support the volume of water.
Southeast of Inglaterra: North and South Downs will record 50-60mm of rain. Londres will experience moderate but persistent rain. Traffic on the M25 may experience significant disruption.
East of Inglaterra: strong winds are expected to accompany the precipitation during Saturday night. Áreas coastal areas like Norfolk face the risk of a hangover. Visibility will be reduced during peak rainfall.
Weather evolution throughout the week
Unstable conditions are expected to persist until mid-week. A new frontal system approaches the northwest on Tuesday (2). Períodos of intermittent rain is expected until Thursday.
Sunday (30) offers a break from the most intense rainfall. The day will be drier and colder in much of the country. Widespread Geadas is forecast for Sunday night.
Detailed forecast for the next few days:
- Sunday: Seco and cold, with moderate winds
- Monday: Chuvas intense in the south and southeast
- Tuesday: Chuvas persistent and strong winds
- Wednesday: Melhora gradual in time
- Thursday: Condições more stable
Recommended preparation measures
Local authorities have implemented contingency plans since this Friday. Bombeiros and emergency services reinforced teams in risk areas. Pontos support was organized in vulnerable cities.
The population received specific guidance through applications and social networks. Key recommendations include:
- Avoid crossing bridges over flooded rivers
- Do not drive through accumulated water on the road
- Keep flashlights and emergency supplies
- Monitor official alerts in real time
- Prepare sandbags to protect homes
Public transport companies announced adjustments to timetables. Algumas train lines can operate at reduced speed. Aeroportos monitor conditions for possible cancellations.
Impact on transport and infrastructure
Major road systems will face greater disruption. The M4 in the País of Gales and the M5 in the south-west are hotspots. Acúmulo of water can close important sections.
Main highways at risk:
- M4 (Country of Gales and southwest)
- M5 (Bristol to Exeter)
- M25 (London and surrounding areas)
- A30 (southwest of Inglaterra)
Rail services have implemented heightened safety protocols. Trens can be suspended in flood areas. Passageiros were advised to check conditions before traveling.
The airports of Heathrow, Gatwick and Cardiff are monitoring the situation. Reduced Visibilidade may affect operations. Domestic Voos are at greater risk of delays.
Continuous condition monitoring
Met Office maintains 24-hour monitoring teams. Radares meteorological systems operate in real time. Ajustes in alerts can be made as the system evolves.
Further warnings may be issued over the weekend. The exact trajectory of the low pressure system still presents uncertainties. Satellite Dados are analyzed continuously.
Conditions should begin to improve on Wednesday (3). An anticyclone approaches northwestern Europe. Temperaturas more lows are expected later in the week.
