UK: Heavy rains cause flooding across the country February 28-29

Event

Heavy rains caused widespread flooding in parts of England and Wales on Friday, February 28, and Saturday, February 29. In England, residents were evacuated from Snaith and East Cowick (East Riding of Yorkshire county) after rivers overflowed. In Wales, Pontypridd (Rhondda Cynon Taf county) and the Ely area of Cardiff remain severely impacted. As of 13:03 (local time) on Saturday, February 29, 81 flood warnings remain in place across the UK.

While rain episodes are expected to halt in the coming hours, yellow warnings for wind were issued for most of the country, and will remain in effect until at least Sunday, March 1, at 15:00. Yellow warnings for snow were also issued for northern UK, notably Scotland, and will be in effect until Monday, March 2, at 12:00.

Transportation disruptions, power outages, and other associated disruptions remain possible in the affected areas.

Advice

Individuals in or traveling to the UK are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions (including road closures) and power outages, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.