Warning: Yellow

To expect: Rain

Affected areas: South West England

Start time estimate: Friday 9am

End time estimate: Saturday 6am

The Met Office has announced a Yellow rain warning for South West England for Friday and Saturday.

The region should prepare for substantial rainfall, starting on Friday at around 9am and ending Saturday at 6am.

The Yellow warning for rain was issued at 10:29am on Thursday, January 29.

A Met Office forecast said: “Outbreaks of rain, heavy at times, are expected to arrive across Cornwall on Friday morning and move northeastwards across other parts of southwest England by afternoon, followed by showers during Friday evening and overnight into Saturday morning. 10 to 20 mm rainfall is likely widely, with up to 30 mm possible over the moors and perhaps west Cornwall. Falling on saturated ground, this may lead to some flooding and disruption. Strong winds are also likely in places.”

What to expect

Bus and train services probably affected with journey times taking longer; Spray and flooding on roads probably making journey times longer; Flooding of a few homes and businesses is possible.

What should you do during persistent rain?

Check if your property could be at risk of flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary. Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area. For further details see Met Office Warnings & Advice.

What is a yellow weather warning?

The Met Office has three categories of weather warning, depending on the likely impact of severe weather and also how likely it is to strike in a particular area.

A yellow warning is issued when weather conditions are expected to disrupt travel and traffic and may impact on daily routines but are not likely to pose a risk to life or property.

An amber warning is more severe and advises people to think about changing their plans to minimise the risk.

A red warning means weather conditions are expected to be dangerous with widespread damage to property and a risk to life, with the public usually advised to avoid travelling.

The Yellow weather alert for rain will remain in effect until 6am on Saturday.