Gloucestershire faces a significant weather challenge on Friday as a heavy rainstorm is set to bring intense downpours, prompting the Met Office to issue a severe weather warning.
After a mostly bright and dry Thursday, rain clouds will begin rolling into Gloucestershire around 10pm, with heavy rain expected to commence at 1am on Friday. The Met Office’s yellow weather alert, covering much of England and Wales, will be in effect from 6am on Friday through to 1am Saturday, with lighter showers continuing until 7am.
This severe weather system is moving northwards from the south of the UK, bringing prolonged and intense rainfall throughout Friday before easing on Saturday morning. Authorities warn of possible flooding to homes and businesses, disruptions to bus and train services, longer journey times due to road spray and flooding, and potential interruptions to power and other services.
READ MORE: Christmas Lights Switch-On at Gloucester Food Dock Brings Festive Cheer with Hot Drinks and Elves
READ MORE: Gloucestershire Braces for Severe Weather as Amber Warning Issued for Storm Claudia
A flood alert is already active for the River Wye in Gloucestershire and Herefordshire, signaling that flooding is possible in these areas. The Environment Agency advises extreme caution, urging residents to avoid walking, cycling, or driving through floodwaters. Rising river levels could affect low-lying lands and roads along the River Wye.
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Mike Silverstone explained, “Heavy rain will affect a large part of central and southern England and Wales on Friday into Saturday, and could bring up to a month’s worth of rain in just 24 hours. With ground already saturated from recent wet weather, significant impacts are expected. We’re anticipating surface water and river flooding, alongside hazardous travel conditions.”
The distribution of the rainfall remains somewhat uncertain, but southeast Wales, the Midlands, and parts of southern England are most at risk. The approaching storm will also bring strong easterly winds, compounding the danger.
Rainfall accumulations of 30-50mm are expected broadly within the warning zone, with some areas possibly receiving 60-80mm and isolated spots in southeast Wales potentially exceeding 100mm on east-facing hills.
The forecast for the coming days is as follows:
- Today (Thursday): Mainly fine with sunny spells and occasional light rain early. Temperatures reaching up to 15°C.
- Tonight: Rain spreads north becoming persistent and heavy in places, accompanied by strengthening winds and possible gales in coastal areas. Overnight lows around 8°C.
- Friday: Widespread heavy rain with flooding risk, windy conditions, and gale-force gusts possible. Highs near 15°C.
- Saturday to Monday: Weather stabilizes, with occasional showers amid mostly cloudy skies, lighter winds, and cooler temperatures.
Residents are advised to take the warnings seriously, prepare for potential flooding, and monitor updates as the situation develops.