Storm Claudia: Amber Warnings as Slow-Moving Heavy Rain Threatens Much of England and Wales

Amber warnings in force as Storm Claudia moves across the UK

Amber Met Office alerts for "persistent and heavy" rain remain active as Storm Claudia tracks across the United Kingdom. A wider yellow severe weather notice covers most of England and Wales until 06:00 GMT on Saturday, following recent rain and flooding in several areas, including parts of south Wales.

Forecasters warn the rain will be slow-moving and intense in places, with some areas potentially seeing up to a month's worth of rain in 24 hours. Strong easterly winds and the risk of thunderstorms are also expected in parts of the UK through Friday and into the weekend.

Where impacts are expected

On Friday, amber warnings were activated for rain-soaked parts of Wales, the Midlands, the south west, the south east, the east of England and sections of northern England, with heavy rainfall predicted into Saturday.

• South‑east Wales (amber) — up to 150mm of rain is possible on high ground (almost 6 inches).
• Central and eastern areas under amber alerts — typically 40–60mm expected, with some places seeing up to 80mm.

For context, average November rainfall across central England and south Wales is usually 60–100mm.

Transport and community impacts

Multiple rail operators have warned of disruption. Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry and other providers have advised passengers to check before travelling — delays, cancellations and speed restrictions are possible due to flooded tracks, fallen trees and damaged overhead lines.

Local events and services have already been affected: organisers cancelled Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter Christmas light switch-on on safety grounds, and racecourse officials plan to inspect the Prestbury Park track at Cheltenham ahead of Saturday's card. In Macclesfield a fallen tree damaged three cars; there were no injuries reported.

Emergency response and safety advice

The Environment Agency has warned that ongoing flooding in some areas is likely to continue. Flood defences have been deployed in Bewdley (Worcestershire), and emergency services in places such as Shrewsbury are preparing for further protective measures.

The British Red Cross has placed emergency response teams on standby, and motoring organisations are urging caution. The AA warned people not to travel in hazardous conditions and reminded drivers never to attempt to drive through floodwater. The RAC urged drivers to take the amber warnings "extremely seriously."

Met Office chief meteorologist Matthew Lehnert: "Storm Claudia will bring very heavy rainfall to a large swathe of central and southern England and Wales on Friday into Saturday. This rain will become slow-moving, and some areas could see up to a month's worth of rain in 24 hours."

Other national warnings

In Ireland, Met Éireann has issued a "status orange" rain warning for Dublin, Wexford and Wicklow, and a yellow warning for other eastern and southern counties. Separately, the UK Health Security Agency has issued a yellow cold‑weather health alert for parts of England next week.

Climate context

Storm Claudia — named by the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) — has already brought heavy rain and strong winds to Spain and Portugal. The Environment Agency has warned that England could face widespread drought next year without a wet winter; the country received only 83% of average rainfall from January to October and endured its driest spring for 132 years and its hottest summer on record. The agency said the situation remains "precarious" despite recent rain.

Practical advice

• Check local Met Office and Environment Agency alerts regularly.
• Allow extra time for travel; check with your train operator before setting out.
• Avoid driving through floodwater and follow local emergency guidance.
• Keep mobile phones charged and have an emergency kit ready if you are in a flood-prone area.