The Met Office has escalated its weather warnings, issuing a severe yellow alert for large swathes of southern England and parts of South Wales. The national forecaster is urging the public to prepare for disruptive weather conditions expected to unfold throughout Tuesday.
The warning, which is in effect from 2 PM until 9 PM today, highlights a significant risk of intense thunderstorms. These storms are predicted to bring a combination of hazards, including torrential downpours, frequent lightning, and the potential for hail.
Areas Most at Risk
The alert specifically targets a region stretching from West and East Sussex in the South East, across Surrey and Hampshire, and into South Wales, including the capital city of Cardiff. Residents and commuters in these areas are advised to exercise extreme caution.
Potential Impacts and Public Safety Advice
The sudden and heavy rainfall poses the most immediate threat, with a high likelihood of localised flooding. The Met Office has outlined several key risks associated with the impending storms:
- Flash Flooding: Where flooding occurs, there is a genuine danger to life. Fast-flowing or deep floodwater can severely disrupt communities.
- Travel Chaos: Delays and cancellations to train and bus services are highly probable. Spray and sudden flooding will lead to difficult driving conditions and potential road closures.
- Property Damage: Floodwater could enter homes and businesses, causing damage to buildings. There is also a chance of power cuts and service interruptions to other utilities.
- Danger from Lightning: The storms will bring an increased risk of lightning strikes, which pose a threat to individuals caught outdoors.
Experts are advising the public to monitor the latest forecasts and warnings closely. If you must travel, allow extra time for your journey and never attempt to drive or walk through floodwater. Consider the impact of the weather on your daily activities and have a plan in place should conditions deteriorate rapidly.
