Storm Claudia is poised to unleash torrential rain across parts of England and Wales this Friday, March 15, 2024, as the Met Office issues upgraded weather warnings. An amber alert for “persistent and heavy” rain is in effect from noon on Friday until midnight, affecting regions including the Midlands, south-west, south-east, and eastern England.
According to the Met Office, some areas in England could receive up to 80mm of rain, while higher ground in Wales may experience between 100mm and 150mm. The forecaster warns that these conditions could be intensified by strong easterly winds and possible thunderstorms later in the day.
Potential for Severe Weather Impact
Storm Claudia, named by the Spanish Meteorological Agency, has already caused heavy rainfall and strong winds in Spain and Portugal. In the UK, a separate yellow warning for rain covers much of England from Cheshire and North Yorkshire to the south coast, effective from 06:00 on Friday for a 24-hour period. Additionally, a wind warning is in place for some western areas of the UK, forecasting gusts of up to 70mph from noon until midnight.
The Met Office has advised that power cuts, travel disruptions, and potential damage to buildings are likely. Travellers are urged to exercise caution, particularly in central and southern England and Wales, which will be heavily affected by the rain.
Matthew Lehnert, the Met Office’s chief meteorologist, cautioned that the slow-moving rain could result in up to a month’s worth of rain falling in just 24 hours. “Much of this will fall on saturated ground, increasing the chances of flooding,” he stated. He explained that within the amber warning areas, some regions could see rainfall exceed 150mm, with 60-80mm expected more broadly.
Preparations for Flooding and Safety Measures
In the north-west of England and north-west Wales, gusty winds pose an additional risk, with potential gusts reaching 60-70mph in exposed locations within the warning area. Unlike many named storms, Storm Claudia is not anticipated to pass directly over the UK but will remain positioned in the west, according to the Met Office.
The Environment Agency has warned of possible surface water and river flooding in northern England. They are collaborating with emergency services and local authorities to ensure preparedness ahead of the storm’s impact. Ben Lukey, a flood duty manager, noted, “Storm Claudia will bring heavy prolonged rainfall across parts of England, with significant surface water flooding probable across parts of central England on Friday. River flooding impacts are also possible into Saturday.”
As Storm Claudia approaches, residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed about weather developments and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The situation remains dynamic, and further updates will be issued by the Met Office as the storm unfolds.
