A second weather alert for rain has been issued by the Met Office for the south-western region of England, signaling more anticipated disruptions ahead.
The initial weather warning, which can be found in detail on the BBC website, is set to remain in effect until 23:59 GMT. Following that, the new warning will commence at 09:00 on Friday and run until 06:00 on Saturday.
In this latest advisory, the Met Office cautioned that the incoming rainfall could lead to travel complications in areas like Devon and Cornwall, with buildings potentially at risk of flooding. This announcement comes on the heels of significant weather events, including Storm Ingrid that hit on Saturday and Storm Chandra just a couple of days later on Monday. These storms forced numerous schools, businesses, and pubs to close their doors due to rising water levels.
Forecasts indicate that a band of rain will sweep across Cornwall before pushing north-east throughout the evening, expected to clear out by early Saturday morning. The rain is predicted to be "heavy at times," with accumulations likely between 10 to 20mm (or about 0.4 to 0.8 inches), and even up to 30mm (1.2 inches) possible over the moors and western parts of Cornwall.
The forecaster highlighted that the rain could exacerbate flooding concerns, especially since the ground is already saturated from previous storms. Additionally, strong winds are also anticipated in certain areas, further complicating conditions.
Initially, the end time of the first warning was adjusted from 03:00 on Friday, as the Met Office indicated that rainfall during this period might worsen existing flooding situations. The first warning encompasses regions such as Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire.
Moreover, the Environment Agency has issued flood warnings and alerts for several locations, which you can check for updates. Areas affected include the A361 from East Lyng to Burrowbridge, the River Parrett, Washford River, Salt Moor, North Moor, along with the River Fowey, Helford, Fal Rivers, and rivers in North Cornwall.
In addition, the RNLI has raised alarms regarding forecasted sea swells, warning coastal residents about potential dangers. The lifeboat service anticipates waves could reach heights of up to 15ft (4.5m), likely leading to unexpected surges up beaches on Friday, which may overwhelm sea fronts and harbor walls, catching beachgoers off guard.
They advise people to maintain a safe distance from the water, as the conditions could easily knock someone off their feet or even wash them into the sea. Stay informed and stay safe!
