A yellow weather warning has been issued for heavy rain in the UK as the country copes with flash flooding causing damage to homes and travel disruptions. The recent rainfall surpassed the monthly average, with South Newington in Oxfordshire receiving 111.4mm, more than double the average amount. Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, and Warwickshire were among the worst affected areas, with road closures and disruptions to rail services.
The Environment Agency issued 26 flood warnings and 71 flood alerts across England, indicating expected and possible flooding, respectively. National Highways announced the closure of the A421 in Bedfordshire due to severe flooding, with uncertainty on when it will reopen. Train services, including the Marston Vale line and routes between Banbury and Bicester North, are also impacted.
Although a respite from heavy rain is predicted for Tuesday and Wednesday, a yellow weather warning for heavy rain is in place for Thursday, particularly affecting the northeast of England. Temperatures are expected to drop below average on Friday across the UK, with showers forecasted for southern England on Wednesday morning.
The Met Office spokesperson, Oli Claydon, highlighted varying rainfall amounts across different regions, with the potential for significant rainfall in certain areas. Despite the upcoming weather challenges, Mr. Claydon reassured the public that air frost could occur in rural parts of southern Scotland overnight. The situation is being closely monitored to mitigate any further risks or disruptions.