The UK is bracing itself for a battering from severe thunderstorms, with the Met Office issuing a yellow weather warning for parts of England. The warning, which came into effect at 3am on Friday morning, covers several counties and is expected to remain in place until at least 8pm tonight.
Forecasters predict that affected regions could experience heavy downpours, with some areas potentially seeing 20-30mm of rain in an hour, and up to 50mm over a few hours. This intense rainfall raises the risk of localised flooding, particularly in urban areas and where drainage systems may struggle to cope.
The geographical scope of the warning primarily encompasses parts of England's south-east, with particular focus on counties such as Kent, Sussex, and Surrey. While Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales are not currently under the same immediate warning for this specific event, localised heavy showers and some thunderstorms cannot be ruled out in these areas over the coming days.
The potential implications of these thunderstorms include disruption to travel, with delays to road, rail, and air services possible due to standing water, reduced visibility, and lightning strikes affecting signalling equipment. There is also a risk of power cuts, as lightning can damage electrical infrastructure. Furthermore, properties in low-lying areas or those with inadequate drainage could experience flash flooding, leading to damage and difficult conditions for residents.
The Met Office advises the public to stay updated with the latest forecasts and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. Practical safety advice includes securing loose outdoor items that could be blown away by strong winds, avoiding walking or driving through floodwaters, and being cautious of slippery surfaces.
While yellow warnings suggest a lower level of impact, the localised nature of thunderstorms means that some areas could experience significant disruption. It is crucial for residents in the warned areas to take appropriate precautions to minimise risks to themselves and their property.
Source: Met Office