Storm Babet is hitting the UK with what is being described as “unprecedented rainfall” – ahead of matches this weekend involving Aston Villa, Birmingham City, West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The UK has been hit with a red weather warning with heavy rain and damaging winds expected to hit Scotland and make its way through the rest of England. This has potential ramifications for club football up and down Britain.
These extreme weathers are set to hit the north east, north west and east of England hard, potentially causing power cuts and floods. Such turbulence is expected to continue until Saturday.
What have the Met Office said?
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Tony Wardle said: “Heavy and persistent rain will fall onto already saturated ground bringing a risk of flooding. It is important to stay up to date with warnings from your local flood warning agency as well as the local authorities.
“As well as heavy rain, Storm Babet will bring some very strong winds and large waves near some eastern coasts too.”
Could Premier League and EFL fixtures be called off?
Fans should expect delays, or even cancellations, to some public transport connections. They should also be cautious when travelling in such extreme conditions.
Games played at the lower ends of the EFL, or in the non-league, could be postponed with many pitches expected to be waterlogged. This could lead to a big cluster of matches that need to be rescheduled.
Premier League and Championship matches are less likely to be postponed for on-the-pitch reasons but may be challenged if fans cannot safely get to games on time.
Birmingham travel to Middlesbrough in the Championship while West Brom host Plymouth Argyle. In the Premier League, Villa welcome in-form West Ham and Wolves travel to fellow strugglers Bournemouth
Blues’ trip to north east looks could be the most problematic because the Met Office have highlighted that region as one of the ones likely to be worst affected. Bournemouth, being near the coast, could also get hit with the worst of the conditions so Albion fans should be cautious.
