Heavy rain and potential flooding will hit Stoke-on-Trent this afternoon as the Met Office issues a yellow weather warning for the city and surrounding areas of Staffordshire.
The warning takes effect from 1pm BST today and runs until late evening, bringing the threat of intense downpours, thunderstorms and localised flooding across the Potteries. Forecasters warn residents should prepare for surface water accumulation on roads and in low-lying areas, with some locations facing persistent rainfall punctuated by heavy bursts.
Wind speeds will remain moderate at 10-15mph but could gust higher during the heaviest showers, particularly in exposed areas. Temperatures will reach 15-17°C despite the wet conditions.
The stormy weather forms part of a mixed picture across Britain today. Northern Ireland and western Scotland will also see rain, though less severe than central England. Wales faces a cloudy day with intermittent showers, while eastern England may stay drier for longer before clouds thicken this evening.
The Met Office urges drivers to take extra care on the roads, warning of reduced visibility and slippery conditions. Motorists should avoid driving through floodwater, whilst residents in flood-prone areas are advised to take precautionary measures to protect their homes.
Local authorities will monitor conditions closely as prolonged heavy rain can saturate ground and increase flooding risks in coming days, even from lighter rainfall. Emergency services encourage residents to check flood alerts and stay updated with the latest forecasts.
The outlook improves from tomorrow, with showers becoming lighter and less frequent across the region.
Source: Met Office