First the floods – now (surprise, surprise), a washout Bank Holiday weekend is on the cards with heavy downpours across country
Heavy rain caused flash flooding in parts of the Midlands, including Birmingham, and forecasters warned that much of the Bank Holiday weekend could be wet and unsettled. The conditions are notable after a prolonged dry spell and multiple heatwaves, with drought declared across much of England and Wales.
Up to 75mm of rain fell in some areas, while 32 properties flooded in Birmingham’s Perry Bar and Lichfield recorded 52.8mm within hours. The Environment Agency issued 42 flood alerts, and the Met Office forecast 10–30mm of rain for many areas over the weekend, alongside travel disruption as an estimated 20 million car journeys and reduced rail services coincide.
- Flash floods hit the Midlands after intense rainfall.
- Bank Holiday weather is expected to remain unsettled.
- Heavy holiday traffic and rail disruption are also forecast.
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England and Wales have had a prolonged dry spell and several heatwaves, leaving much of the country in drought. Drought means water supplies and the natural environment are under pressure after an extended lack of rainfall.
The Met Office forecasts weather, while the Environment Agency issues warnings when flooding is possible. Heavy rain can cause flash flooding when it falls faster than drains, rivers and the ground can cope.
Bank Holiday weekends often bring more people on the roads, and rail services may run less frequently. Wet weather can therefore affect travel as well as homes and local communities.