By Abdullahi Lukman
United Kingdom’s Met Office has urged residents across the country to remain cautious as unsettled weather continues following Storm Benjamin, which battered several regions last week and triggered flood alerts in parts of Norfolk.
The Met Office has warned that while the worst of the storm has passed, further rain, strong winds, and falling temperatures could still cause disruptions in the coming days.
A flood alert issued for Norfolk on Saturday, October 25, warned of rising river levels caused by “tide locking,” where high tides prevent normal drainage to the sea.
The affected areas include Reedham, Cantley, and Brundall, with key routes such as Ferry Road in Reedham, the A47, and the railway line between Reedham and Brundall all at risk.
Authorities advised residents to avoid low-lying roads and remain alert as water levels are expected to stay high into the new week.
In Greater Manchester, residents enjoyed a brief spell of sunshine and dry conditions over the weekend, though the Met Office forecast predicted rain returning by Sunday morning.
Areas such as Wigan, Bolton, and Rochdale are expected to see the heaviest rainfall, with persistent showers continuing through to Tuesday.
Temperatures are forecast to drop to around 7°C overnight, with cold northwesterly winds maintaining a brisk chill.
Scotland faces a more wintry outlook, with snow and hail expected from Sunday night into Monday.
The Met Office noted that while such conditions are not unusual for late October, the combination of rain, sleet, and cold air could pose travel and safety challenges.
Looking ahead, the national forecast suggests a prolonged period of instability as the UK heads into November. Low-pressure systems are expected to bring widespread rainfall and gusty winds, particularly across western regions already saturated by recent storms.
“Rain may be heavy and prolonged in places,” the Met Office said, warning that further flooding remains a possibility.
For Norfolk, tide locking continues to pose a serious challenge, preventing effective river drainage and heightening flood risks even without heavy rainfall.
Local councils and emergency services have pledged to monitor conditions closely and update warnings as needed.
Officials continue to urge residents across affected regions to stay informed, follow safety guidance, and avoid unnecessary travel.
Despite brief dry spells, meteorologists caution that the UK’s weather pattern remains volatile.
As one local official noted, “We’re not out of the woods yet.”