Met Office issues Amber weather alert with heavy rain and possible flooding in Flintshire

The Met Office has issued an amber rain warning for Flintshire and surrounding counties, with heavy rain and potential flooding expected from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday morning.

The warning, issued just before 6am today highlights the potential for significant disruption and flooding.

Rainfall is expected to become heavy and persistent later on Wednesday, easing by Thursday morning.

The Amber warning is active from 12pm today through to 12pm on Thursday.

The heaviest rain is predicted over north-facing hills, where strong winds will further enhance rainfall.

Many areas within the warning zone can expect 30-40mm of rain, with the high ground in northwest England possibly receiving 70-90mm.

The mountains of north Wales may see over 100-150mm of rainfall.

Met Office Chief Meteorologist Neil Armstrong said: “A band of prolonged and heavy rain will move north and west across the UK during Wednesday and Thursday.

“Areas exposed to the strengthening northerly winds are most likely to see the highest rainfall amounts, with a chance of some areas, particularly over higher ground in North Wales seeing more than 150mm, with parts of North West England seeing more than 80mm.

“Many places could see 30-40 mm of rain, while a few areas may receive 60-80 mm. Areas over higher ground in the Amber warning areas could see the equivalent of more than one months’ worth of rain before the low pressure moves on, later on Thursday.”

This is what the Met Office says to expect

Residents in the affected areas should prepare for challenging conditions:

-Spray and flooding are likely to make driving difficult, potentially leading to road closures.
-Fast-flowing or deep floodwater could pose a danger to life.
-Some communities may become isolated due to flooded roads.
-Delays and cancellations to train and bus services are likely.
-Power cuts and loss of other services to homes and businesses are possible.-

Safety Tips

To stay safe during this severe weather, the Met Office advises the following:

-Avoid travelling by road during hazardous conditions. If travel is necessary, drive cautiously and be vigilant for dangers.
-Do not attempt to drive, walk, or swim through floodwater. If you encounter deep or fast-flowing water, call 999 and wait for assistance.
-Stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and heed advice from emergency services and local authorities.

Regional Impact

The amber warning covers multiple regions, including:

Wales: Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Wrexham
North West England: Blackburn with Darwen, Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Chester, Greater Manchester, Halton, Lancashire, Merseyside, Warrington
East Midlands: Derbyshire
Yorkshire & Humber: West Yorkshire

Further ahead

We’re still likely to see some showers on Friday, especially in the north, though there will some brighter spells in the south and east through the day. Later on Saturday, a front may move in from the Atlantic bringing a band of rain to Northern Ireland and western parts of Scotland. For many though, Saturday is likely to be a fair day, feeling warmer with temperatures slightly higher than average.

Conditions are likely to change on Sunday though, as we see a return to more unsettled and showery weather.