The Met Office has issued yellow rain and thunderstorm warnings across Northern Ireland, Scotland, and parts of England, with up to half a month's rainfall expected in the next 24 hours. The warnings, in place from Sunday into Monday, could cause flooding and travel disruption during the half-term break.
Northern Ireland is forecast to see the heaviest rainfall, with 50 to 75mm possible within 12 to 18 hours, according to forecaster Simon Partridge. This compares to an average July rainfall of 89mm, meaning more than half a month's rain could fall in less than a day. Eastern parts of the region are under a 24-hour warning from 6pm Sunday to 6pm Monday.
Parts of England and Scotland may also experience 20-40mm of rain in just two hours on Monday. The Met Office warns of possible flooding, power cuts, and danger to life from fast-flowing or deep floodwater. Train and bus services could be delayed or cancelled due to flooding or lightning.
The wet weather follows a third heatwave this year, which left four areas of England in drought and led to hosepipe bans. Dry ground increases flood risk as it cannot absorb water quickly. Climate breakdown, caused by human activity, is making extreme rainfall more common and intense across Europe.
