Month's worth of rain forecast for tonight

Aug 15 2007 By Emma Cullwick, Birmingham Mail

BATTEN down the hatches right now! A month's worth of rain is forecast to fall in less than 24 hours this afternoon and evening.

Torrential downpours and thunderstorms are heading our way, with up to up 30mm of rain predicted to fall by 7pm.

A severe weather warning was issued by the Met Office for the West Midlands as Highways Agency officials urged motorists to take extra care.

"Severe weather is expected up until at least 7pm todayWeds, particularly in the south Midlands," said a regional forecaster for the Met Office.

"Slow-moving heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop throughout the day.

"Local torrential downpours may give totals of 20 to 30mm in a short period of time, which is about a month's worth of rain for this time of year.

"The public are advised to take extra care."

He encouraged people to keep an eye on the Environment Agency's Floodline and to check news bulletins for any traffic problems caused by the downpours.

The Met Office said showers would die out overnight and tomorrowThurs would see fewer showers, as well as some sunshine.

"But it will still be cool for August, with maximum temperatures around 17C," said the spokesman.

A Highways Agency spokesman added: "Road users are reminded to check the forecast before they travel, and to make sure they are prepared for rain to affect their journey.

"All drivers should take care in exposed locations and pull over at the next safe stopping place if the weather becomes severe.

"Rain and spray can reduce visibility and more than double the distance it takes to stop, so drivers are advised to use headlights and maintain a safe distance between themselves and the vehicle in front.

"If water on the road is reducing grip and making steering unresponsive, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually."

f=XZapfDingbats n o Up-to-date road information is on www.highways.gov.uk and 08700 660 115. For information on weather conditions, visit www. metoffice.gov.uk or listen to local radio broadcasts.

Flood warnings can be found on 0845 988 1188.