The UK is bracing for a rare and intense display of thunderstorms, with the Met Office issuing a yellow warning across much of the country. The warning, which came into effect on Tuesday afternoon, highlights the risk of "frequent lightning" over the next few hours.
Forecasters predict that heavy downpours, hail, and strong gusts will sweep through affected areas, raising concerns about localised flooding in urban areas and poor drainage hotspots. This could lead to treacherous driving conditions, delayed public transport services, and even power cuts and damage to buildings from lightning strikes.
The warning covers a vast swathe of England, including the Midlands, East Anglia, parts of the South East and North West, Wales (central and eastern regions), and Northern Ireland's eastern counties. Scotland is largely outside the immediate scope, but localised heavy showers cannot be ruled out in some areas.
Temperatures have been mild ahead of the storms, ranging from 18C to 22C, contributing to atmospheric instability. Winds could reach up to 40mph in exposed areas during the peak of the storms, increasing the risk of falling branches and other hazards.
The Met Office urges residents to stay informed about the latest forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes in weather. Practical safety advice includes unplugging non-essential electrical appliances, avoiding open areas during lightning, and refraining from driving through floodwaters.
Those planning travel should check local traffic and public transport updates before setting off, while garden furniture and outdoor items should be secured to prevent them being blown away by strong winds. Staying indoors during the worst of the weather is strongly recommended.
This latest warning follows a period of unsettled weather across the UK, typical for this time of year as warmer air masses interact with cooler fronts, creating conditions conducive to thunderstorm development. The Met Office continues to monitor the situation closely and will issue further updates as the weather system evolves.