Gloucestershire faces the prospect of significant weather disruptions as heavy rain is forecast for Wednesday, December 17, and Thursday, December 18. The Met Office has issued two yellow weather warnings covering most of the county, warning residents and businesses to prepare for potential flooding and travel delays.
The first alert runs from 10am to 11:59pm on Wednesday, affecting the majority of Gloucestershire. The second alert covers southern and eastern parts of the county from midnight to 9pm on Thursday. Authorities highlight the risk of flooding causing damage to homes and businesses, with small communities at risk of being cut off due to flooded roads. Train and bus services may also face delays, and power outages are a possibility.
According to the Met Office’s local forecast, the heaviest rainfall in Gloucestershire is expected from around 7pm until midnight on Wednesday. The agency warns, “A period of rain, heavy at times—especially over high ground—will move east across the region on Wednesday. Following recent wet weather, travel disruption and flooding are possible.”
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Rain accumulation is predicted at 15-25 mm across the warning area, with the potential for 40-60 mm over higher terrain such as the Dartmoor and South Wales hills. The rain is expected to ease by the early hours of Thursday.
Thursday’s warning forecasts further heavy rain primarily impacting the southern parts of the county, with another 15-25 mm of rainfall likely and isolated spots seeing up to 40-60 mm, particularly over the Downs. Additionally, strong winds gusting over 50 mph in exposed coastal areas could worsen conditions.
Flood alerts remain in effect along key waterways, including the River Severn, the River Leach from Northleach to Mill Lane near Lechlade, rivers in the Forest of Dean, and the River Windrush from Bourton to Newbridge.
Looking at the immediate weather:
- Today will be mostly bright and dry with some patchy cloud in the east, temperatures averaging around 10 °C.
- Tonight will be largely clear, allowing frost to form early before cloud and west winds increase towards dawn, with temperatures dropping to around 1 °C.
- Wednesday will bring wet and windy conditions with heavy rain spreading east, coastal gales, and possible local flooding.
- Thursday remains unsettled with continued rain and strong winds.
- Conditions improve on Friday with brighter, drier weather and occasional showers, before rain returns on Saturday accompanied by breezy winds.
Residents are advised to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and plan for potential travel delays as Gloucestershire navigates this severe weather event.