Local News · Wiltshire-wide
Yellow weather warning issued as Storm Boleo brings flooding risk to Wiltshire
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for heavy rain across southern Wiltshire, with travel disruption and surface water flooding likely until late Saturday.
Residents in southern Wiltshire are being urged to prepare for potential flooding and travel disruption as a yellow weather warning for heavy rain comes into force. The alert, triggered by the arrival of Storm Boleo, is active from 11am until 11pm today, Saturday, October 24.
Forecasters are warning of a high likelihood of moderate impacts due to surface water flooding. While the rainfall is expected to be significant, with 25mm to 30mm forecast widely across the affected region, some upland areas could see as much as 50mm to 60mm of rain within a short six-hour window. The warning specifically covers areas including Trowbridge, Warminster and Westbury, though it does not currently extend to Swindon, Devizes or Marlborough.
Wiltshire Council has confirmed that its highways teams are on standby to respond to issues such as fallen trees, debris and road blockages around the clock. The council has issued a clear warning to motorists, urging them never to attempt to drive through floodwater. Drivers are instead advised to turn around and seek alternative routes, and to check local traffic updates before setting off on any essential journeys.
Public transport users should also anticipate potential delays, with bus and train services likely to be affected by the conditions. The Met Office has advised that spray and standing water on roads will likely result in longer journey times.
Safety advice for residents
Beyond travel concerns, the council and weather forecasters are recommending that residents take proactive steps to protect their homes and safety:
Property protection: Those living in areas prone to flooding should review their flood plans and ensure their emergency flood kits are ready.
Power supplies: Residents are encouraged to prepare for potential power outages by gathering torches, spare batteries, and mobile power packs.
Reporting issues: Any debris, fallen trees or flooding on the road network can be reported directly to Wiltshire Council using the MyWiltshire portal.
The current weather system is expected to ease during the evening, although a second band of intense rain is anticipated to arrive from the west later in the night. If you face an immediate risk to life, you should dial 999.
Source: Swindon Advertiser - Lifestyle · View original