RESIDENTS across south Wales are being urged to brace for a spell of heavy, persistent rain this week, with the Met Office issuing a yellow weather warning covering 14 counties. The alert, which comes into force at midday on Tuesday, 4 November, is expected to remain in place until 6am on Wednesday, 5 November.
Forecasters have warned that “heavy and persistent rain” could bring up to 50mm of rainfall in some areas, with the worst conditions expected across south-facing hills, particularly in the Brecon Beacons. Many parts of Wales are likely to see between 20mm and 30mm of rain throughout the day, raising the risk of localised flooding and travel disruption.
The areas affected by the warning include Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Swansea, Torfaen, and the Vale of Glamorgan.
According to the Met Office, “Following recent bouts of wet weather, rain is expected to turn more extensive and heavy at times during Tuesday afternoon. 20-30mm of rain is expected widely, with some exposed south-facing hills of the Brecon Beacons and Dartmoor likely to see in excess of 50mm.”
The warning highlights the likelihood of spray and surface water on roads, which could lead to longer journey times and disruption to public transport. Motorists are being advised to take extra care, while commuters are urged to check timetables and travel updates before setting out.
Natural Resources Wales has already placed a flood alert along parts of the Pembrokeshire coast following a series of downpours over recent days. The agency is continuing to monitor river levels closely.
A spokesperson for the Met Office said: “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.”
The unsettled conditions could dampen Bonfire Night celebrations, with further rain expected to follow through the week even after the yellow warning expires early Wednesday.
While the downpours are forecast to ease midweek, the outlook remains unsettled, and residents are being urged to stay alert for further updates as autumn’s wet spell continues across Wales.
