Weather warning for New Year's Day
The Met Office has warned of further heavy rain tomorrow morning after issuing a yellow weather warning.
Forecasters have warned that further, heavy rain will return on Wednesday morning with up-to 60mph winds expected to accompany the rain.
The Met Office’s Chief Forecaster says: “Another active Atlantic frontal system and deepening area of low pressure is expected to push northeastwards across western UK on Wednesday.
“A combination of strong winds and very moist air will give locally significant rainfall accumulations especially over south-facing coasts and hills. The more persistent rain should clear eastwards later on Wednesday and overnight into Thursday.”
The Environment Agency has issued two flood warnings in the South West and 18 flood alerts and residents are reminded to take precautions against flood damage.
With the ground already saturated over much of this area, there is still a risk of further localised flooding.
Flooding is possible for the Rivers Avon, Erme and Harbourne, coastal streams from Bigbury to Dartmouth, and Kingsbridge, South Brent and Ivybridge areas on Wednesday 1 January 2014 from early daylight hours.
Police are advising motorists to take extreme care when driving in periods of heavy rain and be prepared for the unexpected puddle or flood water around the next corner adjusting your speed accordingly for the conditions.
Please do not attempt to drive through flood water as it could damage your vehicle causing you to get stuck.
With the previous amounts of heavy rain we have had, rivers are running very high at the moment and there is an increasing risk that their banks could burst causing further flooding. Please keep away from river banks.
The rain is expected to begin at around 5pm this evening with clear spells and scattered, blustery showers to remain on New Year’s Day.
The showers are likely to be heavy at times with hail and thunder also expected.
The Met Office forecast for the next four days is as follows:
Wednesday
Persistent, occasionally heavy rain continuing northeastwards through the morning with gales or severe gales along the south coast. The rain clearing to leave sunshine and blustery showers through the afternoon. Maximum Temperature 12 °C.
Outlook for Thursday to Saturday
Remaining unsettled with showers or longer spells of rain, which are likely to turn heavy at times. Often windy with a continuing risk of gales.
