UK weather: Flood warnings issued across the country as Met Office amber rain warning comes into force

The Met Office previously issued two weather warnings for heavy rain. This included a yellow warning covering most of England and Wales, and a more severe amber warning covering the Midlands and partially stretching up the north-east of England.

Now, the Environment Agency (EA) has issued fresh flood warnings, which means flooding is expected, in 11 areas, including in Northampton, Atherstone, Leighton Buzzard and Luton among others. A further 78 flood alerts, which means that flooding is possible, have been issued across England and Wales.

Environment Agency flood duty manager Sarah Cook said: “Persistent heavy rain and thunderstorms could lead to significant surface water flooding on Monday across parts of England. The impacts could include localised flooding in urban areas and fast-responding catchments, including some property flooding as well as travel disruption. The risk from river flooding remains low.

“Environment Agency teams are out on the ground and ready to support local authorities in responding to surface water flooding. We urge people to plan their journeys carefully, follow the advice of local emergency services on the roads and not to drive through flood water – it is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.

“People should check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation as well as following @EnvAgency on X, formerly Twitter, for the latest flood updates.”

The Met Office’s amber warning came into force at 5am and is currently due to expire at 9pm this evening (September 23). It is estimated that the worst-affected areas may see as much as 100mm to 120mm of rain on Monday, with chatter of more possible warning later this week.