Fresh flood warnings have been issued across western Britain, including in Whaley Bridge – just over a week after residents of the Derbyshire town were allowed to return home after a dam emergency.
Up to a month’s worth of rain was expected to drench north and south-western England as well as most of Wales on Friday, the Met Office said. A yellow warning would remain in place until 10pm, with some places potentially getting 80mm of rainfall.
Forecasters said there was a low risk that some homes and businesses could be flooded, while bus and train services were likely to be delayed.
About 1,100 residents were told they could return to Whaley Bridge in Derbyshire last Wednesday, almost a week after they were evacuated when the Toddbrook reservoir dam wall partially collapsed.
Meanwhile, motorists across the country have been advised to drive carefully on Friday and allow for extra travel time as spray and flooding on roads were expected to cause disruption.
Blustery winds were expected to batter western parts of the country on Friday, particularly in exposed areas. The Met Office said: “Heavy rain may also coincide with peak travel times during the afternoon and early evening, leading to difficult driving conditions on major routes.
“The heaviest rain is most likely over high ground, where some places may see 60-80mm. Strong winds are also expected, with 30-40mph gusts likely around exposed coasts and hills.”
This August could be one of the wettest on record after a washout start.
