Storm Claudia is set to deliver heavy rain across parts of England and Wales, with the Met Office issuing upgraded warnings for the severe weather. The amber warnings for “persistent and heavy” rain will take effect from noon on March 15, 2024, and remain in place until the end of the day. Areas affected include parts of Wales, the Midlands, the south-west, the south-east, and eastern England.
In specific regions, rainfall could reach up to **80mm** in England, while Wales may experience **100-150mm** in higher ground areas and between **50-75mm** generally. These conditions are expected to worsen due to strong easterly winds and the possibility of thunderstorms later on Friday.
Impact of Storm Claudia
Storm Claudia, named by the Spanish Meteorological Agency, has already caused significant rain and wind across Spain and Portugal. In the UK, a separate yellow warning for rain is in effect covering much of England, from **Cheshire** and **North Yorkshire** to the south coast, lasting for 24 hours from **06:00** on March 15. Additionally, there are warnings for winds reaching up to **70mph** in some western areas, in place from noon until midnight.
The Met Office warns that these weather conditions could lead to power outages, travel disruptions, and damage to buildings. Travellers are advised to stay alert, as central and southern England and Wales are predicted to be heavily affected from Friday into Saturday.
Matthew Lehnert, the chief meteorologist at the Met Office, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “Much of this will fall on saturated ground, increasing the chances of flooding and contributing to the amber warnings we have issued.” He noted that areas under amber warnings could see accumulations exceeding **150mm**, with **60-80mm** expected widely across impacted regions.
Preparations and Safety Measures
In the north of England, the Environment Agency has warned of potential surface water and river flooding. The agency is coordinating with emergency services and local authorities to ensure readiness as the storm approaches. Ben Lukey, the flood duty manager, highlighted the anticipated risks, saying, “Storm Claudia will bring heavy prolonged rainfall across parts of England, with significant surface water flooding probable across parts of central England on Friday.”
Unlike many storms that directly traverse the country, Storm Claudia is expected to remain positioned in the west, according to the Met Office. This unusual trajectory raises concerns about localized flooding and the effects of sustained rainfall over an extended period.
As the storm approaches, officials urge communities to remain vigilant and prepared for possible emergencies. The combination of heavy rain, strong winds, and saturated ground conditions poses a serious risk, making it essential for residents in affected areas to stay informed and heed safety advice.
