Heavy rain is expected to bring disruption to parts of the UK with some areas facing the risk of flooding.

A Met Office yellow weather warning for “persistent heavy rain” is in place for parts of Wales and South West England until 5pm on Thursday.

People are being warned of disruption to power supplies with the possibility of flooding to some properties.

Communities could become cut off, while deep floodwater is possible alongside warnings of delays on all transport networks.

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The Met Office said “some higher ground areas may see 70-90mm or more” of rain, bringing the risk of flooding.

Across the UK there are 36 flood warnings in place and 122 flood alerts.

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Flood warnings are issued for “expected” flooding, while alerts are given for “possible” disruption.

Saturated ground caused by recent wet weather means that even areas which have avoided the worst of recent heavy rain could be at risk of flooding.

People are being urged to “stay away” from “swollen rivers” and not attempt to drive vehicles through floodwater.

Staff from the Environment Agency (EA) have been erecting flood barriers at several of the most at-risk sites.

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This has included the Worcestershire town of Bewdley, which has previously experienced flooding from the River Severn.

Mark Garratt, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, told Sky News the “continued heavy rainfall” in parts of the Midlands and South West England “means that minor localised surface water and river flooding is probable” with the impact “potentially continuing” throughout the week.

He added: “With the ground already saturated, communities in these areas should check their flood risk.

“The Environment Agency is monitoring flood levels, operating flood gates and barriers at locations across the country, and ensuring debris screens are clear from blockages to ensure communities are better protected.

“We advise people to stay away from swollen rivers and urge people not to drive through?floodwater as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.”

Forecasters have said Thursday should be mostly mild but windy, with the prolonged rain in the south in contrast to showers elsewhere.

What to do if you get a flood alert or warning

A flood alert means people should prepare as flooding is possible.

People can get updates through Floodline on 0345 988 1188 – or follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter.

People should also have a bag ready with vital items such as insurance documents and medications in the event they need to leave their home.

Other preparations include checking you know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water mains supplies.

Plans should also be made on how and where to move family and pets to safety.

A flood warning means people should act as flooding is expected.

Carry out all the actions for a flood alert, alongside a number of further measures.

These include moving vehicles to higher ground if it is safe to do so.

Move family and pets to safety.

Important and valuable items should be moved to a safe place in your property.

Turn off gas, electricity and water supplies if it is safe to do so – but never touch an electrical switch if you’re standing in water.

If you have property protection products such as flood barriers or air brick covers, use them now.