Overview
- Amber rain alerts run from midday to midnight across parts of Wales, the Midlands, the South West, the South East and eastern England, alongside broader yellow warnings for rain and wind.
- The Met Office says 60–80mm of rain is likely fairly widely with more than 150mm on higher ground in Wales, with strong easterlies and possible thunderstorms worsening impacts.
- Gusts of 50–60mph are forecast with 60–70mph in exposed areas, and Greater Manchester is expected to see around 55mph near 7pm.
- Flood agencies report multiple warnings and dozens of alerts, are deploying defences and clearing waterways, and urge people to check their risk, prepare flood plans and avoid driving through floodwater.
- Rail operators have cancelled some services, imposed speed restrictions and urged passengers to check before travelling as disruption is likely into early Saturday.