Met Office issues 17-hour 'danger to life' rain warning with more flooding possible

Forecasters warn more flooding is possible as another bout of heavy rain falls on already sodden ground

The Met Office has warned of a 'danger to life' as another barrage of heavy rain is set to strike the region. Up to 60mm of rain could fall across the UK over Thursday to Friday this week, the forecaster has said, with lightning strikes and further flooding possible in some areas.

It comes after heavy rain swept through the South West at the end of last week and over the weekend, causing significant travel disruption. Flood water left roads closed across the region and National Grid said there were a number of power outages during the weekend.

Another yellow rain warning has been issued from 5pm on Thursday, September 26 to 10am on Friday, September 27. The whole of the South West is affected by the warning, which is also in place in The Midlands and the South East. The Met Office said: "Heavy rain will bring the potential for some flooding and disruption to transport."

The forecaster added: "Whilst some areas will miss the worst, areas of heavy, showery rain are expected to become widespread across a swathe of England and Wales during Thursday evening and on into Friday morning. There is some uncertainty in the details, but some locations may see up 20-30 mm of rain in 2-3 hours and perhaps 40-60 mm in 4-6 hours.

"Lightning and strong, gusty winds may be additional hazards, especially in southwest coastal areas. Given the recent very wet weather, this will bring the potential for further flooding and transport disruption."

What should I expect?

• There is a slight chance of power cuts and loss of other services to some homes and businesses
• There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded, causing damage to some buildings
• Where flooding occurs, there is a slight chance of delays or cancellations to train and bus services
• Spray and flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
• There is a small chance that some communities will become cut off by flooded roads
• There is a small chance of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life