The Met Office has issued an immediate yellow weather warning for thunderstorms, set to impact various regions across the UK for an 11-hour period. The warning, which came into effect this morning, highlights the potential for significant disruption due to heavy rainfall, frequent lightning, hail, and strong gusty winds.
Affected areas primarily encompass large parts of England, including the Midlands, East of England, and parts of the South East. In Wales, central and eastern regions are expected to experience the brunt of the unsettled weather. Scotland will also see impacts, particularly across the southern uplands and parts of the central belt. Northern Ireland, however, currently remains outside the scope of this particular warning.
Forecasters anticipate rainfall totals could reach between 20-30mm in an hour in some localised spots, with a small chance of up to 50mm over a few hours. These intense downpours carry a risk of flash flooding, particularly in urban areas and on roads, which could lead to difficult driving conditions and longer journey times. Wind gusts accompanying the thunderstorms could reach speeds of up to 50 mph, posing a risk to temporary structures and potentially bringing down tree branches.
Temperatures across the warned areas are forecast to be mild, ranging from around 18C in the cooler, cloudier parts to 23C where sunshine breaks through. This warmth, combined with high humidity, is contributing to the unstable atmospheric conditions conducive to thunderstorm development. The Met Office advises the public to be aware of the potential for power cuts and disruption to public transport services.
Practical safety advice from the Met Office includes avoiding travel if conditions become severe, not driving through floodwaters, and securing loose outdoor items. If caught outdoors during a thunderstorm, individuals are advised to seek shelter and avoid open spaces, isolated trees, and metal objects. The warning is expected to remain in place until late this evening, with conditions gradually easing overnight.