Weather experts warn about a ‘winter of flooding’

The first storms are expected by the end of October

winter of flooding

by Cate Sutherland |
Published on

It seems like yesterday we were sweltering in a heatwave and scrabbling together ways to keep cool and work and protect the kids from the dangers of heatstroke. So when weather forecasters tell us we’re in for a “winter of flooding” that’s set to coincide with Brexit, it’s no wonder we’re all in a bit of a strop.

Experts says that high winds and heavy rain are set to tear across the UK later this month, so it’s time batten down the hatches and curl up in front of the TV.

winter of flooding

Senior meteorologist from AccuWeather, Alan Reppert, said: “A stormy weather pattern will set in before wintertime with active weather during the second half of October across the United Kingdom.”

He added a warning about the big, named storms we often hear about: “At least one named windstorm is expected during this time before a lull in November.

“The most active period of weather will be during the official winter months from December through February.”

Reppert said that Northern Ireland and Scotland face the greatest threat from high winds while less damaging storms are expected to impact almost every other corner of the UK. Shot of cold air are expected to produce snowfall in cities like Edinburgh and Sheffield.

winter of flooding

These reports will bring back devastating memories for families who were impacted by terrible flooding up and down the country in the Christmas period of 2013.

Thousands of people lost their homes and many more were affected by constant travel disruptions and power outages.

Many rivers in the north were pushed to record levels last year, with may farmers citing extreme weather as a reason to quit their lot after generations of hard work.

winter of flooding

Simon Keeling from WeatherOnline confirmed that things will take a turn for the worse come the end of October.

He said: “It is starting unsettled for the final week of the month with further periods of rain and strong winds.

“It may be that by the end of the month higher pressure returns. This brings drier weather, but also the risk of some overnight fog and frost.

“We expect perhaps a more unsettled start to December for many.

“There are hints of pressure building into the middle of the month before falling significantly by the final stages of the month leading to windier, wetter weather.

“There will be gales at times too.”

In preparation for a torrid Autumn, The Met Office revealed a pre-reared list of storm names with the first system set to called ‘Agnus’. They predict temperatures to vary across the country, with the northwest copping the worst of the unsettled weather with an increased risk of overnight frosts.

What would we do without Strictly and The X Factor? And I’m A Celebrity to look forward to? As ever, Autumn telly and fashion is certainly a lot hotter than the British weather.

Do you have any tips on how to prepare for the impending storms? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter (@CloserOnline).

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