The Met Office has issued a 'danger to life' warning to nine UK areas before Saturday due to the risks of heavy rain and snow. The forecaster has followed up the power cuts and wind disruption warning for England and Wales with a further three-day warning for parts of Scotland.

It says that from Wednesday at midday through to 11.59pm on Friday, "persistent and heavy rain" could bring flooding. It means that fast flowing or deep water could endanger life in at least 9 UK areas, while disruption could affect travel, such as trains and bus services.

The weather experts also warned that some communities could be cut off due to flooding, and that power cuts could occur as well.

The Met Office said: "Persistent and heavy rain over hills later Wednesday and through Thursday and Friday may lead to some flooding.

"Rain, whilst intermittent at first on Wednesday, will become persistent and heavy over high ground later in the day, continuing into Thursday and potentially Friday. Rainfall accumulations of 30-60 mm are likely fairly widely inland, with as much as 80-120 mm possible over the highest ground exposed to the brisk southeasterly winds. Given the nature of the ground following recent rain and snow thaw, this may lead to some flooding in places. Rainfall totals will be smaller in coastal areas, but strong onshore winds and large waves at times will be additional hazards.

"In addition, rain will fall increasingly as snow over high ground, especially on Thursday and into Friday, adding to the uncertainty as to how quickly rivers may respond downstream."

The full list of 9 UK areas facing potential snow, flooding and danger to life are:

As part of its advice on preparing for the disruption, the forecaster added: "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.

"Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area."