The Met Office and the Environment Agency have warned that autumn is likely to be wetter than average, with an elevated risk of flooding across large parts of the United Kingdom as unsettled conditions persist.
Forecasters say rainfall anomalies could exceed long-term norms in many regions, driven by repeated Atlantic low-pressure systems that bring frequent bands of rainfall and unsettled weather.
Heavy downpours are most likely to hit western and northern areas, with localised flooding possible in low-lying river basins and urban areas where surface water cannot drain quickly.
The Environment Agency has said it is monitoring river levels and weather patterns and stands ready to respond to any floods, with local authorities and emergency services on alert should conditions deteriorate.
Residents in flood-prone communities are advised to stay informed through local alerts, sign up for flood warnings, and prepare emergency plans and kits in advance of potential conditions worsening.
Officials emphasise that while the forecast points to wetter conditions, they will issue updates as the autumn progresses and new data become available, urging the public to take practical steps now to minimise disruption from floods.
The outlook aligns with a broader pattern of increasingly variable autumns, where frequent storm systems from the Atlantic contribute to above-average rainfall and heightened flood risk across parts of the UK.
