The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms, predicting torrential downpours that could result in flash flooding across a significant portion of the UK. The warning, which will be in effect from 9am to midnight tomorrow, covers extensive areas of England and Scotland.
Commuters who rely on public transport have been cautioned about the potential for delays and cancellations to rail and bus services in areas affected by flooding or lightning strikes. Motorists may also face challenging driving conditions and road closures.
The Met Office highlighted the risk of rapid flooding in homes and businesses, which could be accompanied by power outages. They further warned about the possibility of fast-flowing or deep floodwater, posing a danger to life.
This warning comes after the Met Office forecasted rain and thunderstorms over the weekend and into the next week, which could potentially disrupt events such as Wimbledon. It follows high temperatures on Friday, which triggered a yellow heat-health alert.
The forecast predicts temperatures ranging from 27-30°C across the country during this period.
In conjunction with the weather conditions, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a heat warning until Sunday morning for London, the South East, East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, and Yorkshire and the Humber. People with pre-existing health conditions and the elderly are advised to be mindful of the humid and muggy weather.
Grahame Madge, a spokesperson from the Met Office, described the upcoming thunderstorms as potentially “spectacular,” as they are expected to move along the “spine” of England. Frequent lightning, hail, and strong gusts could accompany the storms.
Mr. Madge emphasised that the temperatures preceding the adverse weather are not classified as a “heatwave,” according to the weather service’s criteria.
