Key Highlights
- The Met Office has issued weather warnings for heavy rain and strong winds in parts of the UK.
- A more severe amber warning is in place for eastern Scotland due to significant rainfall totals and flooding risks.
- Storm Ingrid, named by the Portuguese weather service, will impact south-western England on Friday with heavy rain and gusty winds.
- The UK will experience a cold snap from the weekend into next week as colder air moves in from northern Europe.
Weather Warnings Issued for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Across the UK
The Met Office has issued several weather warnings across parts of the United Kingdom, highlighting a concerning outlook for heavy rain and strong winds. These warnings are particularly significant in eastern Scotland, Northern Ireland, and certain regions in England and Wales.
Amber Warning: Eastern Scotland
A more severe amber warning is currently in force in Grampian, Angus, and Perth and Kinross until 18:00 GMT on Thursday. The weather conditions are expected to bring heavy and persistent rain, with the potential for large rainfall totals of up to 60-80mm, and as much as 100-120mm over high ground.
According to the Met Office, these accumulations may lead to some surface water and river flooding across the area. Since Wednesday evening, there have been significant rainfall totals that could exceed 150mm in a few places, already saturating the ground and increasing the risk of flooding.
Yellow Warnings: Southern Wales, Somerset, Devon, and Northern Ireland
In addition to the amber warning for eastern Scotland, yellow warnings are also in effect across south-east Wales, Somerset, and Devon from 08:00 to 16:00. In Northern Ireland, a similar warning is active until 23:59 on Thursday.
These areas can expect persistent and heavy rain falling on already saturated ground, potentially leading to some flooding and transport disruptions. The Met Office emphasizes the importance of staying alert to local weather updates and preparing for potential impacts.
Saturday: Storm Ingrid Brings Further Risks
Into Friday, a named storm called Ingrid will bring further rain and strong winds into south-western areas of England and Wales. A yellow warning is in place from 02:00 GMT on Friday to 09:00 Saturday for these regions.
The center of Storm Ingrid is expected to move close to the south-west of England and north-west France, bringing strong winds with gusts up to 60mph. While not as powerful or dangerous as the near 100mph winds experienced during Storm Goretti, there could still be some impacts, particularly in coastal areas where large overtopping waves are expected.
With saturated ground and coastal gales, further flooding is possible, and residents are advised to remain vigilant. The Met Office notes that while the wind will gradually ease as the day progresses on Friday, it will likely stay windy through Saturday morning with the center of Ingrid stalling to the south-west.
Preparing for a Cold Snap
The UK is also preparing for a cold snap starting from the weekend and extending into next week. Colder air from northern Europe will begin to spread across the country, leading to a significant drop in temperatures by Monday. Expect temperatures to fall 4-6 degrees Celsius below the average for the end of January.
The easterly wind is likely to bring occasional wintry showers and snow for some parts of the UK.
While the exact location and amount of snow are uncertain, wintry hazards are expected. The Met Office advises residents to stay informed about local weather updates and take necessary precautions.
As the week progresses, experts advise that while the immediate impacts from Storm Ingrid will be felt in south-western areas, other parts of the UK should remain prepared for any potential changes in weather patterns. The ongoing situation continues to evolve, with the Met Office closely monitoring conditions and providing regular updates to the public.
