Britons warned of floods

LONDON: The festive travel plans of millions could be thrown into chaos as Britain is set to be lashed by stormy weather.

The Met Office issued a severe weather warning from yesterday – with the threat of 128km/h gusts and flooding.

Motorists are warned to prepare for delays, while train and bus operators started cancelling services last night.

Met Office forecaster Calum MacColl said: “There is scope for very heavy rain, potentially localised flooding, and strong winds in some areas, so there is a risk of travel disruption.

“The worst areas will likely be the South-West of England, particularly on higher ground. There will certainly be a legacy of rainfall from previous days, so there will be scope for localised flooding.”

The Environment Agency had 73 flood alerts and six flood warnings in place on Sunday, with most in the South-East and South-West.

Residents in York have already been hit by severe flooding after heavy rain across North Yorkshire caused the River Ouse to burst its banks.

The worst of the weather is expected to pass in time for tomorrow as the weather turns colder. Forecasters predict it could be a white Christmas in the Scottish Highlands and northerly parts of England and Wales.

Yesterday, 27 rail operators warned that train services would be slashed and speed restrictions imposed as a result of the high winds. – Daily Mail