The Met Office has sounded a stark warning for North West England today, with a yellow thunderstorm alert in place from midday to 8pm BST. Heavy rainfall, lightning strikes, and strong gusts are forecasted, threatening localised disruption for residents and commuters.
Areas at greatest risk include Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Merseyside, and parts of Cheshire, where some areas may see up to 40-50mm of rain in a few hours. Wind speeds could reach 30-40 mph, posing significant challenges for drivers and public transport users.
The Met Office cautions that flooding risks are heightened due to these storms, potentially causing damage to buildings and infrastructure. With lightning strikes possible, power cuts may also occur in some areas.
Residents in the affected regions are urged to take precautions such as securing outdoor items, avoiding travel during peak storm periods, and being mindful of flood risks near rivers or low-lying areas. If driving, slow down, maintain a safe distance, and be prepared for sudden changes in conditions – never drive through floodwater.
While the North West can expect unsettled weather today, temperatures will remain in the mid-to-high teens Celsius before potentially rising towards the weekend. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are not currently under this warning but may experience localised showers or other forms of unsettled weather.