Storm Christoph: Heavy rain to lash Hampshire

The wave of heavy rain and gales set to pound the UK this week has been dubbed “Storm Christoph” by meteorologists, with people warned to brace themselves for a period of very unsettled weather.

In Hampshire, a yellow weather warning has been issued from Wednesday afternoon to Thursday morning.

The Met Office has predicted heavy rain and flooding in the South.

Meanwhile, other parts of the UK could see up to 200mm of rain over the first half of this week which, coupled with snow melt, poses a serious risk of flooding in eastern parts.

Weather warnings Jan 19-21. See story WEATHER Winter. Infographic PA Graphics. An editable version of this graphic is available if required. Please contact graphics@pamediagroup.com.

Met Office chief meteorologist Dan Suri said: “Following a cold spell where the main hazard was snow, our focus now turns to notably heavy rain moving across the UK this week.

“Some locations could see over 100mm of rain falling through the course of just a couple of days. with up to 200mm possible over higher ground.

A yellow rain alert is also in place for most of northern England and Wales from Tuesday to Wednesday, before most of the UK falls into the warning on Thursday.

The RAC breakdown service has advised motorists to drive only if absolutely necessary during heavy rain and to avoid floodwater completely.

Ben Aldous, the RAC’s patrol of the year, said: “The best advice if you encounter water on the road is to turn around and find another route unless you can be certain that it is shallow enough to drive through.

“At best, deep water could ruin a vehicle or land you with a heavy repair bill, at worst it could mean you’re putting your life, and those of the people who might have to come to your aid, in danger.”