UK weather: heavy rain causes travel chaos as dozens of weather warnings in place

Crashing waves at high tide on Brighton beach this morning.
Crashing waves at high tide on Brighton beach this morning. Credit: Andrew Hasson

Flooding caused by heavy rainfall across Wales and parts of western England has affected roads and led to the cancellation of rail services.

Three Met Office weather warnings are in place for rain across the UK alongside 13 flood warnings, where "immediate action is required", in Yorkshire, the Midlands, and Wales.

Traffic Wales said roads in Ceredigion and Powys had been flooded while railway lines between Shrewsbury and Welshpool, Abercynon and Aberdare and on the Fishguard Harbour Line have been closed.

Transport for Wales (TfW) said rail travellers should check journeys before travelling.

Flash flooding across Shropshire has affected homes in Shrewsbury while Libanus, a village in the Brecon Beacons National Park, experienced 107mm of rainfall in 24 hours.

A Met Office weather warning anticipates 2in-3in (60mm-80mm) of rainfall with south-east and south-west Wales most affected.

Rain continues to fall as the River Usk breaks it's banks at Crickhowell in Powys.
Rain continues to fall as the River Usk breaks it's banks at Crickhowell in Powys. Credit: Graham M. Lawrence/London News Pictures Lt

The yellow weather warnings cover the South West, Midlands, the North West and Wales.

The warning for Wales says: “Homes and businesses are likely to be flooded, causing damage to some buildings.

"Fast flowing or deep floodwater is possible, causing a danger to life.

"There is a good chance some communities cut off by flooded roads.

"Power cuts and loss of other services to some homes and businesses are likely."

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said crews had been sent to people who had driven into flood water on Saturday morning.

The service tweeted: "Large volumes of flood water in North Devon are making driving conditions hazardous. 

“Fire and police have attended a number of people who have driven into flood water. 

“Drivers are asked to respect road closures, not diverting to minor roads which are more treacherous. 

“Avoid travel."

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