Met Office updates yellow weather warning as rain and heavy winds to batter UK

The Met Office has updated its yellow weather warning affecting large parts of the UK.

The warning for rain comes into force at 3am on Wednesday (December 27), with the meteorological service warning that homes and businesses could be hit by flooding in badly-hit areas.

The warning covers most of Greater Manchester and the North West, including the Lake District, and extends across the Pennines into most of Yorkshire plus south-west Scotland. In an update today (December 25), the Met Office extended the areas set to be affected and said it would be in place until 6pm, rather than 3pm.

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A Met Office spokesperson said:

They added: "Outbreaks of heavy rain will move northeastwards across northern England and southern Scotland during Wednesday.

"Across the warning area 20-30 mm of rain is expected to accumulate quite widely. Over higher ground of the Pennines, Lake District and Southern Uplands, 40-60 mm is likely during this period with as much as 70-90 mm in a few locations. Strong winds will likely exacerbate any impacts from the rain. Snow is also likely for a short time across higher ground, although this will quickly turn to rain.

"What should I do? 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, 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