The Met Office has issued a yellow thunderstorm warning covering significant areas of England and Wales, active from Sunday afternoon through to the evening. The warning highlights the potential for heavy rainfall, lightning strikes, hail, and strong winds, which could lead to localised disruption across the affected regions.
Forecasters anticipate that the thunderstorms could develop rapidly, bringing between 20-30mm of rain within an hour in some locations, with isolated spots potentially seeing up to 50mm over a few hours. This intense rainfall raises the risk of surface water flooding, particularly in urban areas and on low-lying roads, which could impact travel plans for many.
The warning zone primarily encompasses central and southern England, extending into parts of Wales. Specifically, regions such as the Midlands, East Anglia, and parts of the South East of England are included, alongside eastern and central areas of Wales. Northern England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland are currently not within the scope of this particular warning, though localised showers are possible elsewhere.
Accompanying the heavy rain, lightning strikes pose a risk of power cuts and damage to buildings. Hail, which can be significant in size during severe thunderstorms, could also cause damage to vehicles and crops. Wind gusts, although not the primary concern, could reach speeds of 30-40 mph in exposed areas during the storms, further exacerbating potential hazards.
The Met Office advises the public to take precautions. This includes securing loose garden items, avoiding exposed areas during a storm, and being aware of potential road closures or delays if travelling. Those planning outdoor activities in the affected areas are encouraged to monitor local weather updates closely. Temperatures are expected to remain mild before the storms arrive, generally ranging from 18-22 degrees Celsius across the warning area, before dropping slightly with the onset of rain.