Greater Manchester residents are bracing themselves for a battering of thunderstorms today, with the Met Office warning of heavy downpours, lightning strikes, hail, and strong gusty winds set to sweep across the region. The yellow warning, which came into effect at 11:00 BST this morning, is expected to last until 21:00 BST tonight, covering all areas including Manchester, Salford, Bolton, Stockport, and Wigan.
Forecasters predict that while the exact timing and location of the most intense storms may vary, residents should be prepared for challenging conditions. Localised surface water flooding is a primary concern, which could affect homes and businesses, as well as significant disruption to travel networks. Motorists are being advised to exercise extreme caution due to reduced visibility and potential standing water on roads.
Temperatures will remain mild today, ranging from 16°C to 20°C, but the humid conditions are expected to contribute to the intensity of the thunderstorms. Wind speeds could reach up to 30-35 mph during heavier squalls, further exacerbating driving difficulties and potentially causing minor structural damage or fallen branches. The Met Office has also highlighted the risk of power cuts due to lightning strikes affecting electrical infrastructure.
While this warning is focused on Greater Manchester, other parts of the UK are experiencing varied weather patterns. Scotland and Northern Ireland are generally seeing a mix of sunny spells and scattered showers, with temperatures around 14-18°C. Wales is expected to have a similar outlook to parts of northern England, with some areas susceptible to heavy showers later in the day. Southern England, by contrast, is likely to remain largely dry with warmer temperatures, possibly reaching 22-24°C, though isolated showers cannot be entirely ruled out.
The public is encouraged to stay updated with the latest Met Office forecasts and local authority advice. Practical safety measures include securing loose garden furniture, checking drainpipes and gutters for blockages, and avoiding unnecessary travel during the peak of the storms. If driving is essential, individuals should allow extra time for journeys and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.