Parts of the United Kingdom are poised to face heavy rainfall as travelers make their way back home, with 106 flood alerts currently in effect.
Following a weekend of diverse weather conditions during Easter, which included intense downpours and strong winds on Good Friday, as well as warm sunny intervals and highs of 15C on Saturday, rain is forecasted to sweep across the nation.
On Monday, as two million vehicles are expected to hit the roads for the return journey from the bank holiday getaway, motorists may encounter wet conditions with up to 15mm of rainfall. The rain is projected to move northwards towards southern Scotland later in the afternoon.
The most significant delays are anticipated between 10am and 12pm, prompting drivers to consider traveling later in the day or during the evening hours.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution on the roadways, as heavy downpours can escalate the risk of hazards due to reduced visibility and longer braking distances.
The Environment Agency has issued three flood warnings, including areas in Dorset on the southern coast of England, while 106 flood alerts are currently active across the southern regions.
According to Greg Dewhurst, a meteorologist at the Met Office, the prevailing low-pressure systems are expected to persist throughout the upcoming week, influencing the weather conditions across the UK.
As the day progresses, rain will continue its northward journey, with intensified downpours developing in the southern areas. Showers are likely to become more prevalent during the afternoon, with the possibility of hail and thunderstorms.
Looking ahead, the weather outlook indicates further wet and windy conditions for Britons due to the Atlantic weather system. Despite the inclement weather, temperatures are relatively mild, with the southern regions experiencing the best sunshine and highs of 14C in London.
Liam Eslick, another forecaster at the Met Office, highlighted the potential for localized flooding in certain areas and advised travelers to stay informed about road conditions, as well as any potential disruptions to bus and train services.
Motorists are encouraged to reduce their speed, maintain a safe following distance of at least four seconds, and allow for extended braking distances on slippery road surfaces. Rainfall estimates range from 5mm to 15mm, as per forecasts.
While Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to observe brighter intervals, the overall forecast suggests continued unsettled conditions post the extended weekend, characterized by persistent low pressure and bouts of heavy rain.
Met Office Forecast
The northern regions are likely to remain predominantly dry with sunny spells in the northwest, while the rest of the country may experience cloudier conditions with rain, occasionally heavy, moving northwards. Southern areas could witness heavier showers, potentially accompanied by hail and thunder, despite feeling relatively warm in sunny intervals.
Monday Night:
Cloud cover will persist in the north with ongoing outbreaks of rain overnight. Showers will continue in the southernmost regions, while clearer skies elsewhere may lead to patchy mist and fog formation by dawn.
Tuesday is expected to be rather cloudy, with rain anticipated in Scotland and Northern Ireland, alongside sunny intervals and showers across England and Wales, which could intensify during the afternoon.
Wednesday to Friday Outlook:
The weather pattern is predicted to remain unsettled and cloudy, with showers and prolonged periods of rain on Wednesday, although the far north may experience drier conditions. More rain is expected from the west on Thursday and Friday, with temperatures averaging out.