More rain could add to flood issues, says Met Office

Heavy rain forecast for the coming days could worsen existing flooding problems, the Met Office and local councils have warned.

A yellow weather warning has been issued for the south-west of England from Monday evening through to Tuesday night.

The Met Office said that, with ground already saturated after weeks of persistent rainfall, further downpours could lead to flooding and disruption.

The region is still recovering from the strong winds and heavy rain brought by Storm Chandra last week, which left roads and properties under water.

The Met Office said outbreaks of rain in areas including Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, may become persistent on Monday, especially later in the day and overnight, before gradually easing and clearing into Tuesday.

Its yellow warning also said spray and flooding on roads could make journey times longer and lead to possible disruption on public transport. There was also a chance of fast flowing water or deep floodwater causing danger to life.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council said the extra rainfall could have the potential to lead to some flooding and disruption.

Andy Hadley, cabinet member for environment, said travel disruption was possible.

The ground would remain "very wet, and further rain forecast for the next few days may exacerbate the current flooding issues that the council teams are still dealing with," he said.