The Met Office has issued a 47-hour warning for thunderstorms and lightning strikes set to hit southern England and Wales this weekend. The warning alerts residents to anticipate potential damage to buildings from lightning strikes, disruption to public transportation, and the risk of flooding in affected areas.
The forecast warns of spray and sudden flooding leading to challenging driving conditions and potential road closures. Public transport services may experience delays or cancellations, and there is a possibility of power cuts affecting homes and businesses. Flooding, lightning strikes, hail, or strong winds could damage properties, with a risk of fast-flowing or deep floodwater posing a threat to life. Some communities might face isolation if roads become flooded.
The yellow warning covers Wales, southwest England, the Midlands, and parts of southeast and northern England. The alert began at 1 am on Saturday and extends until midnight on Sunday. While some regions may remain dry, others could experience disruptive thunderstorms and heavy showers.
On Sunday, a separate weather warning for rain will be in effect in Wales and central south-west England, with expected rainfall of up to 70mm over a few hours along with hail and frequent lightning. This stormy weather follows a recent warm, dry spell with temperatures reaching 25C in Inverness and southeast England.
The Met Office’s chief meteorologist, Jason Kelly, noted that not all areas within the warning zones will necessarily experience thunderstorms. However, he cautioned that persistent heavy rain is anticipated to continue into the following week, potentially prompting additional weather warnings.
Deputy chief meteorologist Dan Harris highlighted that the upcoming wet weather may persist into the next week, with the likelihood of another warning being issued for Monday. The forecast suggests a development of heavy rain by the end of Sunday, primarily affecting southern regions of the UK.
This warning underlines the importance of staying informed and prepared for the unpredictable weather conditions expected over the weekend and beyond.