18 October 2023 , 19:02
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The UK is braced for 'unprecedented' rainfall in the coming days with the arrival of Storm Babet likely to lead to postponements across the football calendar.
A red weather warning has been issued for heavy rain and damaging wind in parts of Scotland, while there are also warnings in place for parts of England ahead of the return to club action.
The Met Office has confirmed the north-east, north-west and east of England will be affected by a risk of flooding and power cuts from Thursday through to Saturday, while there is likely to be travel disruption for fans attending matches.
Liverpool welcome Everton to Anfield in the Merseyside derby in Saturday's early kick-off although it is hoped conditions will have improved by the time the match gets underway.
Elsewhere in the affected areas, Manchester City host Brighton and Newcastle take on Crystal Palace while the East Midlands is braced for heavy rain, which could impact Nottingham Forest's clash with Luton.
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Matches in the Football League are likely to be more at risk though, with clubs potentially facing waterlogged pitches and unplayable conditions. There is also a full round of fixtures scheduled in Scotland and in the Women's Super League.
Adverse weather has previously led to postponements across the entire football pyramid with Manchester City's clash with West Ham called off in 2020 because of Storm Ciara.
On that occasion, City said they were forced to call the game over due to 'extreme and escalating' conditions that would have put the safety of supporters at risk.
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Tony Wardle said: "Storm Babet will bring disruption for parts of the UK in the coming days, with heavy rain and strong winds likely for many.
"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."