The Met Office has issued a yellow thunderstorm warning covering much of northern England, in force from 2pm Tuesday until 2am Wednesday. The warning area initially included Wales and parts of western England but has been extended to nearly all of northern England, with Manchester, York and Newcastle upon Tyne affected.
Heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to move northwards through Tuesday evening, slowly dying out overnight. The Met Office warned of localised impacts from heavy rain and lightning strikes, with 10-20mm of rain possible in an hour and up to 30mm in a few hours.
Separately, a rain warning is in place for northern Scotland from 10pm Tuesday until 11.59pm Wednesday. Widespread rainfall of 20-30mm is forecast, with up to 75mm in heavier bursts and 90mm in worst-affected areas. The warning covers Angus, Aberdeenshire, Moray and the Highlands.
The Met Office advised that motorists may face delays due to flooded roads and spray, and some homes and businesses could be at risk of flooding. There is a small chance of fast-flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life, and train and bus services may be cancelled.
