Weather forecasters say up to 70mm of rain could fall
The Met Office has issued a heavy rain warning across the South West, with 'persistent' rain expected to fall across the region. Some parts of the region could see up to 70mm of rain fall overnight and forecasters warn of disruption to travel and transport, as well as possible power cuts.
Meteorologists say public transport could be delayed by the bad weather, which is expected to hit later this evening, Monday, July 8. The warning is in place from 6pm tonight, until 3am on Tuesday morning.
Nearly all of the West Country is included in the warning, from Cornwall up to parts of Gloucestershire. Weather maps show a band of heavy rain moving up from the South West this afternoon, with rain forecast in Bristol from around 3pm and not let up until around 6am on Tuesday morning.
The Met Office said: "After a generally cloudy day with showers, more persistent rain will push north this evening and overnight. Rain will be persistent and heavy at times, particularly so for hills, moors and headlands exposed to brisk winds.
"Most of the warning area will see 20-40 mm of rain, with as much as 60-70 mm possible for some areas, for example Dartmoor and Exmoor. Rain should ease from the south during the night, clearing to scattered showers by morning."
What to expect
- Bus and train services probably affected with journey times taking longer
- Spray and flooding on roads probably making journey times longer
- Some interruption to power supplies and other services likely
Met Office South West forecast
Today
A cloudy start to the new week with spells of rain and drizzle throughout much of the day. Feeling cool underneath the cloud with a breeze picking up later in the day. Maximum temperature 17 °C.
Tonight
Rain continuing in the west this evening, turning heavy at times and becoming more widespread into the night, before clearing north and eastwards. Breezy and mild. Minimum temperature 12 °C.
Tuesday
An unsettled start with low pressure dominating, bringing spells of rain and drizzle, followed by possibly heavy showers. Feeling humid in any brightness but cooler under the rain. Maximum temperature 21 °C.
Outlook for Wednesday to Friday
Largely dry on Wednesday with the odd shower. Sunshine and showers on Thursday, before turning drier into Friday with sunny spells. Feeling pleasant in any sunshine.