More than half of the average January rainfall is set to hit various parts of the UK today. The Met Office has predicted that regions in southern England, including parts of London, Surrey, and Hampshire, could experience up to 50mph of rain within a few hours as a low-pressure system moves eastward, peaking in intensity during the late afternoon.
A weather warning for heavy rain is in effect until 10 pm for areas such as London, Kent, Surrey, East Sussex, and West Sussex. Brighton, which typically receives 75mm of rain in January, is expected to see around 50mm today, raising concerns about potential flooding. Residents are advised to prepare an emergency kit containing essential items like insurance documents, emergency contacts, a flashlight with spare batteries, and necessary medications.
Southampton, also under the rain warning, usually receives about 90mm of rain during January, but only half of that is anticipated today. The Met Office cautions that an area of low pressure moving northeast across England on Thursday will bring sustained and heavy rainfall, with accumulations of 20-30mm expected in most areas and up to 40-50mm in isolated spots, possibly leading to localized flooding due to saturated ground.
Recent rainfall in Port Ellen, Argyll and Bute, and widespread showers on Wednesday night have prompted flood warnings and alerts from the Environment Agency, including along the River Severn in Gloucestershire and Worcestershire. Flood alerts are also in place for rivers around London, such as the River Mole in Surrey and The Rivers Wid and Can in Essex.
Looking ahead, the weekend is expected to be unsettled, with rain and wind clearing on Friday and showers likely on Saturday, followed by drier conditions on Sunday. Temperatures are forecast to be around average, with the possibility of overnight fog in some areas.