Another weather warning for region

NORTH Wales has been given yet another weather warning as strong winds and heavy rain are set to batter the region.

Wind speeds of up to 70mph are forecast today, and a weather warning, issued yesterday by the Met Office, says up to four inches (100mm) of rain is expected to fall on Snowdonia on Thursday as ex-hurricane Helene gives way to Storm Ali.

A succession of low pressure cells will bring more stormy conditions to the region today, when high winds are expected to strike between 6am and 10pm, with a yellow “be aware” Met Office warning issued.

The forecaster has also issued a yellow alert for rain between 4am and 10pm on Thursday, and warned that the weather could lead to flooding. Downpours could also hit bus and train services and power supplies.

A Met Office spokesman said: “An area of rain is expected to move northeast across many parts of the UK on Thursday. Rain is likely to be most persistent and heaviest across parts of Wales and northwest England.

“40-60 mm of rain is likely widely across the warning area, whilst some of the higher ground of north Wales and perhaps Cumbria could see 80-100mm. In addition to the rain, strong winds and coastal gales can be expected.”

Storm Ali is the first storm named by the Met Office and Met Eireann this season.