Londoners can expect to be lashed by wet weather this week as Storm Ciarán hits the UK.
The Met Office have issued a yellow warning and have said that people can expect to see flooding and damage to properties as they get pelted by "heavy rain" and strong "winds" on Wednesday and Thursday.
Forecasts predict that the heaviest rain will be seen in southern and western areas of the UK, and residents may potentially become exposed to 20 to 25 mm of it, or even 40 to 60mm above higher ground.
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Chris Almond said: “Winds associated with Storm Ciaran are likely to gust to 80mph along the south coast of England, with a small risk of somewhere exposed seeing 90mph, and winds could even gust up to 50 or 60mph further inland...
"Heavy and persistent rain will fall on to already saturated ground, bringing a risk of further impacts such as flooding in areas that are already struggling to clean up from the heavy rainfall we have seen over the last week or so" in Bognor Regis, Scotland and Sussex.
However, there are some ways to stay safe amid heavy rain conditions, according to the Met Office.
How to stay safe in heavy rain
Take precautions when driving
It is unequivocally safer not to drive in these conditions, but it may of course be necessary to do so. If driving, the main guidance to follow includes simply using main roads wherever possible and slowing down.
It is also important to remember to use dipped headlights, to take more time to react on slippery surfaces and to keep a bigger gap between vehicles as spray from other vehicles can reduce visibility.
Moreover, it is important to note that if a road is flooded, drivers must turn around and find another route. The first cause of death when it comes to flooding is driving through floods, so the best advice would be to turn around until water recedes.
Prepare for flooding
If trapped in a building by floodwater, follow these simple instructions to keep safe:
- Check the flood advice in your area to know when and where flooding will happen
- Charge mobile phone devices
- Park your car outside the flood zone
- Prepare a flood kit to help you cope in the event of flooding to your home and business
- Store valuables up high, including electrical devices, important documents and furniture
- Turn off gas water and electricity supplies
Know what to do in the event of a flood
Avoid walking through flood water. This way, pedestrians can keep children and pets safe and protected from debris, sharp objects, sewage chemicals and open manhole covers.
Even shallow water could potentially knock individuals off their feet. It also goes without saying that swimming in the water is not a very good idea.
If trapped in a building with floodwater:
- Go to the highest level in the building
- Do not go into attic spaces to avoid being trapped by rising water
- Only go to a roof if necessary
- Call 999 and wait for help
Check if properties are at risk of flooding
Preparing a food plan and emergency kit may be vital if water is gushing into homes, but first, one should consider whether their property is at risk of flooding at all.
In order to do this, check services for flooding in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
If houses are vacated, people can check with emergency services when it is best to return.
Think about your neighbours
When keeping safe, people should remember to extend the courtesy to their neighbours if possible. It is important to look out for elderly individuals, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone. They may need support which can be offered via medical supplies.
If you're concerned about your neighbours, it is advised to call NHS 111.
