Scotland on Alert Amid Yellow Met Office Warning for Rain, Wind and Early Snowfall

Storm Claudia Hits the UK With 6 Inches of Rain, Flooding and “Do Not Travel” Warnings as Snow Covers Streets

Brits are bracing for severe weather as Storm Claudia batters the UK, bringing up to six inches (150mm) of rain, major flood risks, and the first snow of the year expected next week.

Heavy rain is forecast across England and Wales today and into early Saturday, triggering Amber weather warnings from the Met Office.

Snowfall Begins in Scotland

Snow has already started falling in northern Scotland as Storm Claudia pulls in a blast of cold Arctic air.

Although the region is outside the Met Office warning zones, a flurry of early-morning snowfall has been recorded as temperatures plunge across the UK.

AA Issues “Do Not Travel” Safety Warning

The AA has advised drivers to avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary, stating:

“Safety comes first. Conditions may change quickly, so stay updated and prepared before you travel.”

More Rain, Thunderstorms, and Gales Expected

A Yellow Rain Warning is now active across much of central and southern England and Wales.
The Met Office warns of:
Slow-moving heavy rain
Thunderstorms later today
Gusts of 60–70mph in exposed areas of northwest England and northwest Wales

Government Response

Floods Minister Emma Hardy said she is in close contact with the Environment Agency as teams work with local authorities and emergency services to protect communities ahead of expected flooding.

Cold, Wet Weekend Ahead — and Even Colder Next Week

The entire UK will turn colder and wetter over the weekend as winter firmly sets in.
Heavy rain is expected, especially in the west, with further warnings for flooding, power outages, and travel disruption in southern England.

Temperatures will drop sharply heading into next week, with the Met Office predicting a much colder spell nationwide.

Credit: Garry F McHarg FOCAL Scotland, Northpix, Garry F McHarg FOCAL Scotland