Brits Warned as Violent Storms Set to Hit From Midday
A yellow weather warning is in effect from 12pm to 10pm today, as lightning, flash flooding, hail, and 50mm of rain in 2 hours are forecast to lash England and Wales.
The Met Office said scattered but intense thunderstorms are expected to build rapidly in the afternoon across southern counties, Wales, and the West Midlands.
Met Office meteorologist Becky Mitchell warned:
“Scattered showers and thunderstorms will develop Monday afternoon… Rain may be intense for short periods and produce 20-30mm in less than an hour – up to 50mm in a couple of hours in one or two places.”
What to Expect
- Storms to start around 12pm, peaking mid to late afternoon
- Yellow alert covers: Wales, West Midlands, South West, South East and parts of the East Midlands
- Hazards include: Lightning, hail, flash flooding, and gusty winds
- Rainfall: 40-50mm possible in 1–2 hours
- Power cuts and travel disruption likely in affected areas
With average May rainfall at just 70mm, some areas could see over half a month’s rain in one afternoon.
Where and When?
Today’s thunderstorm hotspots include:
- Bristol
- Reading
- Cardiff
- Gloucester
- South Wales Valleys
- Birmingham outskirts
The North West and Southern Scotland may also see scattered showers, while drier, calmer weather is expected to return Tuesday onward.
How Hot Will It Get?
Despite the downpours, temperatures are still climbing. The Met Office says:
- Highs of 25–26°C expected
- Northern Ireland and Scotland could see their warmest day of the year so far
Stay Safe: What You Should Do
The Met Office advises:
- Secure garden furniture, trampolines, bins
- Check for flood risk and prepare a flood emergency kit
- Avoid driving through standing water
- Report localised flooding to your council
