The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms, affecting significant swathes of England and Wales. The warning, which came into effect from 13:00 BST and is set to remain active until 22:00 BST on Sunday, highlights the potential for heavy rainfall, lightning, hail, and strong gusty winds across the designated areas. This follows a period of changeable weather, with warm temperatures often preceding the instability that leads to such convective activity.
Regions impacted by the warning include much of central and southern England, extending westwards into parts of Wales. Specifically, areas such as the South West, South East, East of England, West Midlands, and parts of the North West of England, alongside large portions of inland Wales, are advised to be vigilant. The Met Office indicates that some locations could experience rainfall totals of 20-30mm in less than an hour, with isolated spots potentially seeing up to 50mm over a few hours. This intensity raises the risk of localised surface water flooding, particularly in urban areas and where drainage systems may struggle to cope with sudden deluges.
Beyond the immediate rainfall, the accompanying lightning strikes pose a risk to power supplies and could lead to minor structural damage. Hail, while generally small, could be disruptive, especially to motorists. Wind gusts, although not expected to reach damaging levels across wide areas, could make driving conditions challenging, particularly on exposed roads. Temperatures across the affected regions are forecast to be in the low to mid-20s Celsius before the storms arrive, contributing to the atmospheric instability.
In Scotland and Northern Ireland, the immediate forecast remains more settled, with no current thunderstorm warnings in place. These regions are generally expected to experience a mix of sunshine and some showers, but without the intensity or widespread nature of the thunderstorms predicted further south. However, the Met Office consistently advises residents across the entire UK to stay updated with the latest forecasts, as weather patterns can evolve rapidly.
Practical advice for those in the warning areas includes preparing for potential travel delays, particularly on roads and public transport. Motorists are urged to drive with caution, reducing speed and being aware of sudden changes in visibility due to heavy rain and spray. It is also recommended to secure loose garden furniture and avoid sheltering under trees during lightning activity. For those planning outdoor activities, having an alternative indoor plan or being prepared to seek shelter quickly is advisable.
Source: Met Office