I knew we were in for it when I looked out of the window this morning and saw the swallows flying at almost roof level.

Low flying swallows signify low pressure, and that means rain and storms.

Sure enough, when I turned on the radio the forecast warned of two month’s rainfall in 24 hours for southern England — that’s 4 inches emptying onto already sodden ground.

It seems we are getting masses of wet air from France where the heat is lifting moisture from the soggy countryside. Either that, or it’s Napoleon’s revenge.

Severe weather warnings and flood alerts are in place all over the country, but especially for the Cotswolds which will take a really big hit. Pity the tots’ Gymkhanas tomorrow and various Vicars’ annual fetes on Sunday.

Golf fans will not be reassured by the news that this unusual wodge of rain is heading north to Scotland, where Carnoustie’s Open Golf Championship is likely to be hit on the final day. Tiger Woods, dig out a canoe from somewhere!

Most of us are battening down the hatches for The Deluge, and an indoor weekend. No photowalking yet again.

The swallows have spoken.