Britain is set to be battered by a relentless 14-hour thunderstorm, with weather maps pinpointing exactly where and when the heaviest downpours will strike. The dramatic meteorological event promises to drench vast swathes of the country, bringing potential disruption to travel and outdoor plans.
Thunderstorm Timeline: When Will Your Area Be Hit?
Detailed forecast maps reveal the storm's progression across the UK, showing:
- Initial downpours developing in southwestern regions by early afternoon
- The storm system tracking northeastwards throughout the evening
- Peak intensity occurring between 6pm and midnight
- Gradual easing in the early hours of the following morning
Areas at Highest Risk
Weather experts have identified several regions likely to experience the most severe conditions:
- The West Country and southern Wales - first to be affected
- The Midlands - bearing the brunt during evening rush hour
- Northern England - facing torrential conditions overnight
- Parts of Scotland - seeing residual heavy showers
Potential Impacts and Safety Advice
The Met Office warns that such intense rainfall could lead to:
Flash flooding: Particularly in low-lying areas and places with poor drainage
Transport disruption: Possible delays to road, rail and air travel
Power cuts: Lightning strikes may affect electricity supplies
Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm conditions, and stay updated with the latest weather warnings.
How This Storm Compares to Previous Events
While not expected to reach the severity of some historic UK storms, meteorologists note this system shares characteristics with:
- The 2014 'Weather Bomb' that caused widespread flooding
- Summer 2019 thunderstorms that disrupted major events
- Last year's unseasonal August deluge
The combination of high moisture levels and atmospheric instability makes this a particularly volatile weather situation.
