Home / Environment / UK Drenched: Flood Warnings Blanket Nation
UK Drenched: Flood Warnings Blanket Nation
9 Feb
Summary
- Southern England and South Wales face heavy rain and flood warnings.
- Flooding could persist for up to five days in some southern areas.
- Northern Ireland experienced its wettest January in 149 years.
Southern parts of England and Wales are under yellow flood warnings as a band of heavy rain moves east. Up to 30 regions are affected, with 10-15mm of rain expected widely and up to 30mm in exposed areas. This persistent wet weather poses risks to homes, businesses, and travel services.
The Environment Agency has issued warnings that ongoing river and groundwater flooding could last for up to five days across Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, West Sussex, and Somerset. Local river flooding is also probable for the River Severn, and the Rivers Trent and Soar until Tuesday. Properties are expected to flood, causing travel disruption.
This situation exacerbates an already exceptionally wet period. Northern Ireland experienced its wettest January in 149 years, and Cornwall saw record rainfall. While western Scotland and north-west England have been drier, the south continues to face significant flood risks. Only the north anticipates improved weather this week.
Experts note that a high-pressure system to the north is preventing low-pressure systems from moving through, leading to a lack of change in the weather patterns. Brits are advised not to expect immediate relief from the rain and grey skies.
