The Met Office's sudden shift in forecast has brought the UK's heatwave to an abrupt end, with thunderstorms sweeping across various regions. A yellow warning is in place from late morning on Friday, affecting areas including Bristol and its surroundings.
The storm's intensity will be significant, with forecasters predicting heavy downpours that could see up to 30mm of rain fall in just one hour in some locations. This has led to concerns over localised flooding, particularly in urban areas with poor drainage. Frequent lightning strikes also pose a risk to power supplies and outdoor activities.
Despite the storms, temperatures will remain relatively high in some parts before a cooling trend takes hold over the weekend. The South East of England could still see temperatures reach 25-27 degrees Celsius on Friday, albeit with increasing humidity. In contrast, Northern Ireland and Scotland are expected to experience cooler conditions, typically ranging from 17-20 degrees Celsius.
The Met Office has warned of travel delays due to surface water flooding and reduced visibility. There's also a risk of power cuts and damage to buildings from lightning strikes. Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items and avoid unnecessary travel during the peak of the storms.
Looking ahead, the unsettled weather will continue for some regions into the weekend, though its intensity may vary. The Met Office will closely monitor the situation and issue updates as necessary, with a general trend towards more moderate temperatures anticipated by next week's mix of sunshine and showers.