Yellow Weather Warning Causes Flooding and Road Chaos Across Wales

The Met Office’s yellow weather warning for heavy rain and strong winds continues to affect Wales and parts of western England, causing significant flooding and travel disruption. Issued at midday on Tuesday and lasting until midday Wednesday, this warning has already resulted in severe flooding on major routes such as the M4 and A470, with motorists facing hazardous driving conditions and road closures, including the shutdown of the M48 Severn Bridge. Whitechurch in west Wales recorded an intense 50.2mm of rainfall on Tuesday alone, with forecasts suggesting some areas could receive up to 75mm during the warning period. Despite these figures, chief meteorologist Matthew Lehnert reassures that “significant impacts are not anticipated” due to the preceding dry spell that has left the ground relatively absorbent.
The heavy rainfall is linked to a low-pressure system advancing from near Portugal, bringing intense and continuous precipitation that is expected to move northward across western Britain. The Met Office highlights that while rainfall distribution is somewhat unpredictable, widespread totals of 20-40mm are expected, with localized bursts of heavier rain and slow-moving thunderstorms. This unsettled weather follows an unusually dry and warm April, where parts of Wales and the UK experienced temperatures exceeding 20°C and a scarcity of rainfall, contributing to wildfires in some areas. The shift from high to low pressure marks a notable change in the weather pattern, with the jet stream moving southward, allowing wetter conditions to dominate.
Traffic Wales has reported extended congestion, particularly from the M4 westbound Prince of Wales Bridge to junction 23A Magor, advising drivers to allow extra travel time. Diversions remain in place due to the Severn Bridge closure, with traffic cameras showing slow-moving vehicles on key routes. The Environment Agency has issued multiple flood alerts across the South East, Devon, and Cornwall, with the River Torridge expected to flood between Dolton and Bideford. The yellow warning also warns of possible spray and inundation on roads, which could lengthen journey times, and potential interruptions to bus and train services as well as power supplies.
Looking ahead, the Met Office forecasts a temporary easing of rain in the south by Wednesday evening, with dry spells and clear skies developing overnight, accompanied by a frost as temperatures dip to around -1°C. Thursday is expected to bring brighter, drier conditions with occasional showers, though unsettled weather with risks of hail and thunder may return over the Easter weekend before more stable, sunny weather arrives next week.
This weather event underscores the challenges posed by rapidly changing atmospheric conditions and highlights the importance of preparedness for flooding and travel disruption during periods of heavy rain. The Met Office’s ongoing updates and warnings serve as crucial guidance for residents and travelers across the affected regions.