The Met Office has recently issued a weather warning for Storm Bert that is anticipated to cause disruption across the UK, particularly in Wales. As Storm Bert approaches this weekend, a 24-hour weather warning has been put in place. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for heavy rain covering almost all of Wales from 6 am on Saturday, November 23, to 6 am on Sunday. The forecast predicts “prolonged” and “slow moving” heavy rainfall, with up to 150mm of rainfall expected in certain parts and 75mm more generally.
According to the Met Office, a deep area of low pressure will usher in a spell of prolonged and heavy rainfall across a significant portion of the UK over the weekend. Rain and hill snow are expected to develop across Wales and western England from early Saturday morning, turning to rain throughout the region by late morning and continuing until early Sunday morning. Significant rainfall amounts of 50-75mm are expected widely, with up to 100-125mm over higher ground, particularly in south Wales. Some areas in south Wales could see up to 150mm of rainfall, potentially causing substantial impacts.
The weather warning comes after a week of cold temperatures which led to snow and ice in parts of the country. Sections of north Wales experienced school closures and blocked roads due to snowfall. Storm Bert, the second named storm of the season, is anticipated to bring slightly milder temperatures. However, the strong winds and heavy rainfall accompanying the storm will still make it feel considerably cold, as per the Met Office.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Holley has mentioned that the storm signals a shift to milder air, with wintry hazards gradually diminishing over the weekend. Nevertheless, heavy snowfall is expected in parts of northern England and Scotland on Saturday, especially over higher ground. In addition, heavy rain across southern and western UK regions during the weekend may lead to impacts, with several warnings in place. Excessive rainfall within warning areas, and melting snow combined with strong winds, could exacerbate impacts, potentially causing travel disruptions and flooding in some areas.
Looking ahead, the Met Office forecasts that the unsettled weather is likely to persist into the following week, with strong winds and showers expected in several areas. While temperatures are expected to be around average for most regions, the strong winds could create a cold-feeling environment. Further indications suggest a possible brief return to colder conditions with wintry showers, particularly in the north, before transitioning to unsettled and milder conditions towards the end of the following week.
In conclusion, Storm Bert’s arrival is set to bring challenging weather conditions to Wales and other parts of the UK, with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding as key concerns. It is advisable to stay updated with the latest weather warnings and heed advice from local authorities to stay safe during this upcoming storm.