Flood alerts have been issued across the South West in anticipation of Storm Benjamin, which is expected to arrive later today, Wednesday, October 22. The UK prepares for heavy rain and powerful winds exceeding 70 miles per hour, with the most severe weather forecasted for Thursday.
Named Storm Benjamin by meteorologist Mateo France, this low-pressure system has prompted the Met Office to issue multiple yellow weather warnings for rain and wind in the region.
Met Office chief meteorologist Rebekah Hicks emphasized the unusual uncertainty surrounding the storm’s path and strength, urging the public to stay informed with up-to-date forecasts and warnings as conditions could change rapidly.
READ MORE: Bath MP Joins Campaign to Protect Horse Racing Jobs Amid £66 Million Tax Reform Threat
READ MORE: Somerset’s Shepton Mallet Clock Finally Restored After Years of Silence
A 21-hour rain warning will cover the entire South West tomorrow, while the Environment Agency (EA) has released flood alerts for areas in Cornwall and Devon. The region could receive up to 50mm of rain by Thursday morning, raising concerns about rising river levels.
The EA cautions that flooding may begin in the early hours of Thursday as rivers swell, potentially impacting low-lying areas and roads near waterways from approximately 3 a.m.
“We expect the rivers to remain high throughout Thursday, although no property flooding is currently anticipated. We are closely monitoring the situation. Residents should avoid low-lying roads near rivers susceptible to flooding,” an Environment Agency spokesperson stated.
Flood alerts have been specifically issued for areas including parts of Cornwall and the River Teign catchment in Devon. The Devon alert covers Newton Abbot, Kingsteignton, Teignmouth, Shaldon, Bovey Tracey, Kingskerswell, Dawlish, and Dawlish Warren. This zone includes the rivers Teign, Bovey, Lemon, and coastal streams stretching from Babbacombe to Kenton.
Residents in these areas are advised to remain vigilant, follow official guidance, and prepare for possible disruptions as Storm Benjamin moves through the South West.