STORM Dennis is expected to bring very heavy rain, flooding and disruption to travel this weekend.

Heavy, persistent rain on Saturday and Sunday is likely to bring significant river and surface water flooding to parts of England.

It is expected that wind speeds could reach up to 50mph on mainland, and in coastal areas between 60mph and 70mph.

Current forecasts indicate a heightened risk of flooding across much of southern, central and northern England this weekend, with impacts continuing in some slower responding rivers into Monday and Tuesday.

Around 20 to 40 mm of rain will fall widely with between 50 and 80 mm likely across parts of northern England.

Paul Gundersen, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office said: “Storm Dennis will bring a disruptive spell of weather over the weekend, and there are warnings in place for strong winds and heavy rain.

"In parts of Devon, South Wales, northern England and a swathe of southern England – stretching from Andover eastwards – rainfall is expected to be particularly heavy and persistent, and these areas are covered by amber warnings because of the risk of flooding and other disruption.”

It has been an exceptionally wet winter so far with autumn rainfall records being broken for South Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire.

England as a whole had its fifth wettest autumn on record.

Disruption to transport is expected for a second consecutive weekend.

Network Rail advised passengers to expect disruption on many routes due to flooding and allow more time for their journeys.

Tracks could be flooded as the ground near parts of the railway is already saturated, particularly in the North West.

The storm is also likely to cause treacherous driving conditions.

The AA's Ben Sheridan said: “Wind and heavy rain which will significantly reduce visibility on the roads.

“For those who are braving the storm, drivers should make sure they account for the conditions.

"Slow down, allow for greater stopping distances and watch out for potential hazards.”