Yellow rain weather warning issued for Exeter as heavy downpours forecast

Exeter is set to see a return of wet and unsettled weather on Tuesday 16 December and Wednesday 17 December, as the Met Office issues a yellow rain warning covering the city and much of the South West.

After a brief respite from heavy rain on Tuesday, conditions are expected to deteriorate as a new band of rain moves in from the west. 

Forecasters say between 15mm and 25mm of rainfall is likely to accumulate in Exeter over the course of Wednesday, falling on already saturated ground, increasing the risk of localised disruption.

Higher totals are expected across parts of Dartmoor, where 40mm to 60mm of rain could fall during the day. 

The Met Office warning highlights the potential for difficult travel conditions, surface water flooding and possible disruption to power supplies in some areas.

READ NEXT: Exeter ramps up defences ahead of winter storms with upgraded flood protection

A Met Office spokesperson said: “Tuesday will provide a brief day of respite in terms of rain in Exeter, but it’s a short-lived period of drier weather ahead of the arrival of further wet weather for the west on Wednesday.” 

“A yellow warning for rain has been issued and covers Exeter, as well as much of southwest England and parts of south Wales.”

“Fifteen to 25 millimetres of rain is likely to accumulate in Exeter during the day and this will be falling on saturated ground which increases the chance of disruption for some.” 

“Over high ground of Dartmoor, 40 to 60 millimetres is possible over the day. With rain falling in areas sensitive to it at the moment, the warning highlights difficult travel conditions and the possibility of flooding or power cuts to some.”

Motorists and public transport users in Exeter are being advised to plan journeys carefully, with spray and surface water on roads likely to lead to longer journey times. 

Bus and train services may also experience delays if conditions worsen.

Residents in low-lying parts of the city, including areas close to the River Exe and smaller watercourses, are being encouraged to remain alert. 

The Met Office is advising people to check whether they are at risk of flooding, sign up for flood warnings where appropriate, and review travel plans before setting off.

While Exeter’s flood defences continue to offer protection against higher river levels, authorities stress that localised surface water flooding can still occur during periods of heavy and persistent rainfall, particularly when the ground is already waterlogged.

Further updates are expected as conditions develop, with residents advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts and weather warnings throughout the week.