Successive bands of heavy and slow moving rain could lead to flooding in the coming days across parts of central, southern and south west England and south east Wales.
The Environment Agency has tonight issued five flood warnings for the south west, warning residents to take immediate action,
Heavy rain falling on already saturated ground could lead to river and groundwater flooding, and strong winds could worsen surface water flooding, as wind-blown leaves and debris block water drainage.
There are currently five flood warnings and 37 flood alerts in force.
The Met Office has issued a series of amber Severe Weather Warnings, effective from 00.05am on Wednesday morning through until Friday.
The alert warns: “Following Tuesday's rain, a spell of heavy and persistent rain is likely to cross parts of southern, southwest and central England along with southeast Wales during the first half of Wednesday. The rain should gradually ease from the west during the morning.
“The public should be be aware of the possibility of localised flooding and possible disruption to transport.
“This warning has been extended to cover parts of the northeast Midlands and Lincolnshire.”
The Environment Agency is reminding people the affected counties – which include Somerset, Devon, Dorset, Hampshire, Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Oxfordshire and Wiltshire.
It also advised the public to stay away from swollen rivers and not to drive through floodwater.
Environment Agency teams have been mobilised across the country to check on flood defences, clear any river blockages and closely monitor river levels. These teams work around the clock to reduce the risk of flooding, and will be out in force over the coming days.
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