Storm Benjamin is set to batter Wiltshire with heavy rain, strong winds and flooding.
A yellow weather warning has been issued from 3am until 11.59pm on Thursday (23 October) – with gusts of up to 60mph expected and heavier winds likely.
The Met Office said the storm will move across southern parts of the UK from late Wednesday, with widespread rainfall and blustery conditions sweeping into the county overnight.
Rainfall totals could reach 30-50mm in some locations, with the potential for localised flooding.
A spokesperson for the Met Office said: “Storm Benjamin is expected to cross the south of the UK later Wednesday and early Thursday; confidence in its track has improved compared to yesterday but still remains lower than usual for this type of weather system which leads to continued uncertainty over the corridor of highest rainfall totals.
“That said, an extensive and in places heavy swathe of rain will move into southwestern Britain later Wednesday and spread quickly northeast, with totals by early Thursday morning of widely 20-30mm, and for some places 30-50mm.
“There is a chance a few places could exceed this, most likely over North Devon and Cornwall and also within a broad area encompassing Lincolnshire, Humberside, East Anglia and East Midlands.
“In association with the rain, conditions are expected to turn windy with gales, initially along south-eastern coasts, but more widely across southern Britain during Thursday daytime.”
The storm is likely to disrupt travel across Wiltshire, with delays expected on roads and rail networks. The Met Office also warns of possible power cuts and minor damage to buildings caused by falling branches and debris.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has also issued a warning to the public.
A spokesperson for the service said: “The Met Office have issued a yellow weather warning for rain and wind.
“#StormBenjamin may bring localised flooding and travel disruption to parts of #Dorset & #Wiltshire over the next 24 hours.
“If you need to make a journey in your vehicle and come across flooding, please do not try to drive through the flood water – It only takes a small amount of water to ruin your engine!
“Stay #FloodAware and visit our website for advice.”
People living in flood-prone areas are advised to check their risk level and prepare accordingly. This includes having torches, spare batteries and phone power packs on hand in case of power outages.
Motorists are urged to check road conditions before setting off and consider altering their travel plans if possible.
The Met Office is encouraging everyone to stay up to date with the latest weather updates, as warnings may change quickly depending on how the storm develops.
