A ‘danger to life’ weather warning is in place as Storm Claudia batters Wiltshire.
The Met Office says the storm, previously named by the Spanish Meteorological Service, will bring rain that will become persistent and heavy throughout today (Friday).
Forecasters say heavy rain could lead to fast flowing or deep floodwater, posing a significant danger. They warn that homes and businesses may be flooded, with some buildings expected to suffer damage.
Spray and standing water are likely to make driving hazardous. Some roads could be forced to close, and there is a strong chance that certain communities will become isolated by rising water levels.
Public transport is also expected to be affected. The Met Office says delays and potential cancellations are likely across train and bus networks.
Power cuts are possible, along with the loss of other essential services to homes and commercial properties.
Residents are being urged to take extra care and prepare for difficult conditions as Storm Claudia moves across the region.
The Met Office has a yellow warning in place for Wiltshire, with neighbouring counties hit with an amber warning.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Matthew Lehnert said: “Storm Claudia will bring very heavy rainfall to a large swathe of central and southern England and Wales on Friday into Saturday.
“This rain will become slow moving, and some areas could see up to a month’s worth of rain in 24 hours.
“Much of this will fall on saturated ground, increasing the chances of flooding and contributing to the Amber warnings we have issued.
“Within the Amber warning areas, some could see in excess of 150mm accumulate during the event, with 60-80mm fairly widely.
“Gusty winds in the northwest of England and northwest Wales is an additional hazard, with 60-70mph gusts possible in exposed places within the warning area.”
Ben Lukey, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said: “Minor surface water and river flooding impacts are ongoing across the north of England today.
“Storm Claudia will bring heavy prolonged rainfall across parts of England, with significant surface water flooding probable across parts of central England on Friday, while significant river flooding impacts are also possible tomorrow and into Saturday.
“Environment Agency teams are out on the ground to clear any debris from watercourses and preparing to operate flood defences when needed.
“Working closely with local authorities, we are ensuring all emergency responders are aware of local flood risks and fully prepared for the arrival of Storm Claudia.
“We urge people not to drive though flood water – it is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.
