Recent heavy rainfall has forced Exeter Airport in the South West of England to temporarily close its doors. Following the deluge, the airport terminal has been affected by flooding, leading to the suspension of normal operations. A spokesperson from the airport reassured passengers that efforts are underway to restore services as swiftly as possible, urging them to contact their respective airlines for further updates. The closure comes amid an amber weather warning for thunderstorms in parts of the South West, with large regions of England and Wales also under yellow warnings for the same. Precipitation levels are predicted to reach up to 12cm in the vicinity of Taunton and Bridgwater in Somerset on Sunday, exceeding the average rainfall for the whole of September.
As the Met Office issues a yellow weather warning for large parts of the UK, concerns are focused on the severity of incoming thunderstorms in southern England and South Wales. The alert covers London, as well as eastern and southern areas of England, and is set to remain in place from Sunday afternoon until early Monday morning. Coinciding with this, a second yellow warning cautions of heavy rain and thunderstorms in the southwest of England and South Wales, extending throughout Sunday. Forecasters have highlighted the potential for flooding and travel disruption in the affected regions, urging residents and travelers to exercise caution.
Following the recent September heatwave in the UK, meteorologists predict a shift towards wet and windy conditions in the coming days. Monday is expected to see further heavy showers and thunderstorms, although conditions will gradually improve towards the evening as the weather turns drier and fresher from the west. Alongside the precipitation, blustery winds will intensify, especially in areas experiencing heavy showers or thunderstorms. As the week progresses, the forecast remains unsettled, featuring glimpses of strong winds and outbreaks of rain on Tuesday and Wednesday. Widespread showers are predicted for Thursday, presenting a risk of hail and thunder.
Earlier this month, the UK basked in a remarkable heatwave that set a new record. For the first time in September, temperatures soared above 30C for seven consecutive days, becoming the longest hot spell ever recorded during the month. However, this fleeting taste of summer is likely to be replaced by much cooler and damper conditions in the weeks to come.
Exeter Airport’s closure highlights the significant impact of record-breaking rainfall in the South West. With thunderstorms and heavy rain warnings spanning various parts of England and Wales, it is crucial for residents and travelers to stay informed and vigilant. As the warm September weather recedes, the UK prepares for a spell of overcast skies, showers, and blustery winds.
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