Brits have been issued a stark warning about impending flooding this week – with approximately half a month’s worth of rainfall set to batter the nation within just a few hours.

The Met Office has issued a weather alert for rain on Wednesday, with up to 60mm (2.3inches) expected to pummel the country. The deluge will be most severe across south Wales, sections of Southwest England and the Midlands.

Monday brought substantial downpours, particularly affecting south Wales, resulting in numerous flood warnings being implemented for the coming days. According to the Met Office:

“A period of rain, heavy at times, especially over high ground, will move east across this region during Wednesday.

“Coming off the back of recent very wet weather, some travel disruption and flooding is possible.

“There is a chance that homes and businesses could be flooded, causing damage to some buildings. There is a small chance that some communities will become cut off by flooded roads.”

Ordinarily, Swansea experiences approximately 115mm of precipitation throughout a typical December. Cardiff, another location under the weather warning, usually receives around 140mm during the same period.

The anticipated 60mm of rainfall expected within mere hours on Wednesday represents roughly half of December’s average total.

Heavy downpours will also strike sections of Northwest England, including Cumbria, during Wednesday evening. The low-pressure system will progress eastward, affecting areas of East England by Thursday morning.

“Check if your property could be at risk of flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.

“Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary. People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance.

“It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.” the Met Office adds.

The Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales have issued numerous flood warnings and alerts across the country, including one for River Towy affecting isolated properties between Llandeilo and Abergwili in south Wales.

Critical concerns also remain for Dawlish Water at Dawlish in Devon and the River Crake Valley in the Lake District amongst other regions.

Weather experts predict Thursday will bring wet conditions across much of southern England, particularly affecting Wiltshire and Hampshire.

This grim outlook follows Monday’s deluges, which delivered over 60mm of rainfall to Saint Athan in Glamorgan, whilst Plymouth in Devon endured more than 55mm of precipitation.