Key Highlights
- Amber and yellow weather warnings have been issued for parts of England and Wales due to Storm Claudia.
- Flooding is expected in some areas with up to 150mm (6in) of rain predicted.
- Ireland’s meteorological service has also issued weather warnings, expecting significant rain into the weekend.
- Three flood warnings are currently in effect as parts of the Lake District and Carlisle face potential flooding.
Storm Claudia: Weather Warnings Issued Across the UK
The United Kingdom is bracing for a significant weather event with the arrival of Storm Claudia, which has prompted authorities to issue flood warnings across parts of England and Wales. The amber warning, valid from noon until the end of Friday, 14 November 2025, indicates that heavy rainfall is expected, potentially leading to flooding in some areas.
Heavy Rainfall and Potential Flooding
The Met Office has predicted that southern Britain will experience between 30mm (1.2in) to 50mm (2in) of rain widely, with more significant amounts—up to 80mm (3.1in)—expected in parts of east Wales and central England. The easterly flow means that east-facing hills could receive even higher rainfall, potentially up to 150mm (6in) in southeast Wales.
Travel Disruptions and Safety Concerns
The Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Matthew Lehnert, warns of the potential for travel disruptions and power cuts. He states that “Storm Claudia will bring very heavy rainfall to a large swathe of central and southern England and Wales on Friday into Saturday.” The Environment Agency has issued three flood warnings as of 2am, with one at Keswick Campsite in the Lake District and two sites on the River Eden in Carlisle.
The AA (Automobile Association) advises against travelling during this hazardous weather, emphasizing that “safety comes first. Conditions may change quickly, so stay updated and make sure you’re prepared before you travel.” The organization further warns that “flood water can appear quickly, and even shallow water can be dangerous—never try to drive through it.”
Impact on Spain and Portugal
Storm Claudia has also triggered weather warnings in Spain and Portugal. In Portugal, an elderly couple died inside their flooded house due to the storm, according to the Portuguese Authority of Civil Protection. Half of the country was under red and orange weather warnings, with nearly 14,000 people left without electricity. Spain saw significant rain as well, with parts of the country under orange and yellow weather warnings.
Forecast for the Weekend
By the weekend, a colder air mass will bring overnight frosts to much of the UK, according to the Met Office. Some showers are expected in the north, while further south, the weekend will start off largely cloudy and wet but gradually become drier and brighter. The first snow of the season is predicted for some areas by early next week.
The UK weather event underscores the importance of preparedness during extreme conditions. As parts of the country brace for heavy rainfall, authorities are urging residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety and minimize disruption.
