West Midlands weather update: Windy start to new year as yellow weather warning in place

The majority of the Midlands and South England are expecting to see a turbulent start to the New Year as a yellow weather warning for rain and wind is issued for the entire region. 

The series of warnings describe a snowy end to the year on New Year's Eve in Northern Ireland and northern England - as well as high winds and rain in the Midlands and the majority of Wales.

Starting on New Year's Day, forecasts predict that the Midlands, southern England and Wales will experience a high amount of rain and wind, with the weather set to ease on January 2.

On the Met Office website, the weather warning said: "Heavy rain is likely to lead to disruption across Wales and parts of northern England, with chance of flooding in some locations. 

"30-50 mm rain is expected fairly widely, with 50-100 mm across west-facing hills. There is a chance a few locations could see in excess of 100 mm during the event, with north Wales the most likely region to see these larger totals."

The Met Office offered advice on what to do should you be affected by the negative weather, saying to "prepare a flood plan" and to "check road conditions before travelling". 

It said: "Check if your property could be at risk of flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. 

"Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, and amending your travel plans if necessary.

"People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. 

"It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.

"Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area."

For more information on the weather warning and to stay up to date with the latest weather changes, visit the Met Office website.