The Met Office has issued a yellow thunderstorm warning for parts of southern England and Wales, with heavy rain and potential flooding expected from Monday afternoon. The warning is in effect from 4pm to 11:59pm on Monday, covering much of south Wales, south-west England, and parts of southern England.
Forecasters warn of travel disruption due to spray, standing water, or hail, which could affect driving conditions and delay train services. There is also a possibility of flooding for a few homes and businesses, with lightning strikes, hail, or gusty winds most likely near coastal areas.
Chief meteorologist Frank Saunders said areas of heavy showers and thunderstorms will move northwards across southern parts of England and Wales later on Monday before clearing overnight. Some places could see 20-30mm of rain within two to three hours, with a small chance of 40mm in isolated spots.
Further heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected across central and southern areas of the UK on Tuesday, followed by a longer period of heavy rain over parts of south-east Scotland and north-east England from Tuesday through to Wednesday. The Met Office said additional weather warnings may be issued until midweek as rain falls on already wet ground, though the risk of flooding should reduce.
The Met Office also noted increasing confidence that ex-Hurricane Kirk will track south of the UK, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to northern France, with reduced threat of significant impacts to the UK. Temperatures are expected to drop from Wednesday, with below-average conditions from Thursday, night frosts in some regions, and possible snow on higher mountains in Scotland.
