Temperatures jump as heavy rain and flood warnings issued

The UK’s cold snap has given way to soaring temperatures with warnings of heavy rain and some flooding, as people prepare for the Christmas getaway.

Yellow alerts for rain are in place until 6 am on Tuesday in southern England and South Wales.

After freezing conditions last week, forecasters said Monday could bring highs of up to 15C in some parts.

The Met Office said flooding could hit homes and businesses, as well as causing disruption to road travel.

It added that bus and train journeys could also be impacted as downpours hit areas including Brighton, Plymouth and Portsmouth in the south of England, and Newport in Wales on Monday.

There are nine flood warnings in place and 49 flood alerts issued across the country.

More people may also choose to travel on the roads as thousands of members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) strike from 6 pm on Christmas Eve.

The RAC predicts 7.9 million journeys will be made over the two days immediately before Christmas Day, with the worst congestion expected between 10:00 and 19:00 on Friday, and between 12:00 and 13:00 on Saturday.

RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said: “If possible, drivers should try to make their trips on a quieter day earlier this week if they possibly can.”

The AA also issued an “amber traffic warning” for Friday and Saturday, as they urged motorists to carry out car checks including levels of fuel, oil, coolant and screen wash, along with ensuring tyres are correctly inflated.