HEAVY rain and gale-force winds have been forecast for this week.

And the Met Office has warned the weather could disrupt transport links.

The stormy conditions could bring damaging gusts of wind of up to 80mph along some coasts of Britain today.

A yellow Met Office severe weather warning has been issued, meaning people should be aware that severe weather is expected, and should plan ahead for possible travel delays, or the disruption of day-to-day activities.

Will Lang, Met Office chief meteorologist, said: “We have more Atlantic depressions heading our way this week. Heavy rain and gales sweeping in from the west bring the risk of further flooding in some areas, and possible disruption to transport and power supplies.

“Throughout this spell of unsettled weather, everyone is advised to stay up to date with the latest Met Office forecasts and national severe weather warnings, and be aware that the weather may change, or worsen, leading to disruption of your plans in the next few days.”

Homes and businesses in Darwen were hit by flooding again on Friday evening.

Yesterday, there were three Environment Agency flood alerts active in the North West, meaning flooding was possible, but none were in East Lancashire.