Storm Bert to batter South West

Storm Bert is expected to bring disruptive weather across the UK this weekend, with the South West particularly affected by heavy rain and strong winds.

There is a Yellow Weather Warning for strong winds from 3pm on Saturday until 9pm on Sunday, with rainfall set to develop early on Saturday in southwest and southern England. 

The rain will be particularly heavy and persistent, continuing overnight into Sunday. In some areas, such as Dartmoor, rain totals could range from 100-150 mm, while much of the region will experience 50-75 mm of rainfall.

Road, rail, air and ferry services may be impacted during the storm. There may also be hazards with flying debris, while beach material could be washed onto coastal roads.

Met Office Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly warned of the storm’s "multi-hazard" nature, saying, “Heavy rainfall will affect much of the UK this weekend. Rain is expected to develop during Saturday morning across southwest and southern England, becoming particularly heavy and persistent overnight and into Sunday.”

With the combination of heavy rainfall and the rapid melting of lying snow, there is a significant risk of flooding in parts of the South West.

Strong southerly winds are also forecast, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph in many areas of the region. Coastal areas, particularly along the southern and western coasts, could see wind speeds in excess of 70 mph. Kelly emphasized that Storm Bert’s widespread impact means that multiple National Severe Weather Warnings are in place.

These warnings will be updated and expanded over the weekend as conditions evolve. "It’s possible this may be at short notice, so it is important people keep up to date with the very latest forecast," Kelly advised.

With conditions deteriorating, Mark Nash, National Network Manager at National Highways, urged drivers to take extra care. “With the arrival of Storm Bert, it is important to plan ahead for your journey, and if weather conditions become challenging, adjust your driving behaviour and take extra care,” he said.

Local authorities are also advising the public to stay updated on weather forecasts throughout the weekend to ensure safety, as Storm Bert continues to impact much of the country.