Yellow weather warning for rain across West Berkshire and North Hampshire for more than 24 hours as fire crews issue warning to take care when travelling

More than 24 hours of heavy rain is expected across the district tomorrow.

A weather warning for rain is due to come into force in the early hours of tomorrow – and last for more than 24 hours.

The yellow warning covers all of West Berkshire and North Hampshire.

The Met Office has warned that heavy rain will bring some disruption to the district, particularly to transport.

The warning begins at 2am tomorrow (Thursday) and is due to last until 6am on Friday.

Although there is expected to be a drier period during the middle of Thursday, the Met Office says that many places will see around 15-25mm of rain, with some seeing as much as 45mm.

And Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) is urging people to take extra care when travelling during the adverse weather.

Pete Skinner, group manager at RBFRS, said: “Heavy rain and flash flooding can catch people out.

“Please take extra care if you must travel during this time. Standing water on roads is especially dangerous for motorists and should be avoided as much as possible.

“If a road is completely flooded, do not attempt to drive through.

“Similarly, do not attempt to cross fords after periods of heavy rain. Higher water levels at crossings have in the past resulted in several unfortunate drivers getting trapped and needing rescue.

“Riverbanks can also become unstable following heavy rain. Avoid walking near rivers or lakes if water levels are high and, if your journey does take you near water, watch your step and stay as far from the water’s edge as you can.

“If you see someone in difficulty in the water, ‘Call, Tell and Throw – Call 999, tell the person to float on their back and, if available throw something to them to help them float.”

You can get more details on flooding from the Environment Agency’s Floodline on 0345 988 1188.