Met Office has activated an amber alert for heavy and persistent rain in northern Inglaterra and southern Escócia from this weekend.
The forecast indicates accumulations of more than 200 mm in some areas of Cumbria over 48 hours, which could cause rapid and deep flooding.
Yellow alerts cover several regions of Reino Unido between Saturday (December 13) and Monday (December 15), with the possibility of transport interruptions, power cuts and isolation of communities.
- North Oeste of Inglaterra: from 6pm on Saturday to 6pm on Monday.
- South-west of Escócia: from 6pm on Saturday to 9am on Monday.
- North-west of Escócia: from noon on Saturday to noon on Sunday.
- Norte Ireland: midnight Sunday to 6am Monday.
- North-west of País of Gales: from 6pm on Sunday to 3pm on Monday.
Regions most affected by rain
Cumbria appears as the area most impacted by intense rainfall.
The already saturated soil increases the risk of localized and superficial flooding.
Authorities recommend checking the risk of flooding in properties and preparing emergency kits.
The combination of prolonged rain and strong winds worsens conditions on high ground.
Detailed forecast by areas
Southern Reino Unido remains dry and brighter conditions through the weekend.
In Londres and the southeast, Saturday starts cold, but dry, with sun and maximum temperatures of 11°C.
The north faces intermittent rain, with intense winds in coastal areas.
At Escócia, rain advances from west to east, with strong gusts in the southwest.
Risks associated with alerts
Flash floods pose a danger to life in deep or fast-moving flows.
Homes and businesses could suffer damage, with the possibility of cuts to highways and railways.
Power supply interruptions affect some locations.
Isolated communities occur along flooded roads in rural areas.
Conditions in the north west
The region receives persistent rain from Saturday, with coastal Wales later in the day.
On Sunday, conditions worsen with strong winds and heavy rain.
The week starts unstable, with more precipitation and moderate winds.
Temperatures remain above average for the season.
Perspective to the south
Areas like the southwest of Inglaterra have a clear Saturday, but with increasing clouds.
Sunday will be dry, although cloudy and windy.
From Tuesday onwards, rain arrives gradually from the northwest.
Temperatures rise slightly, with highs above normal.
Recommended precautionary measures
Residents in alert zones check the risk of flooding on their properties.
Preparing kits with documents, flashlights and essential medicines helps in emergencies.
Avoiding driving through flooded water prevents accidents, as 30 cm of running water displaces vehicles.
Keeping up to date with official forecasts guarantees preventive actions.
Met Office highlights that the month of December maintains an unstable pattern, with more episodes of rain and wind expected.
