The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms across parts of England and Wales, effective until 4am on Thursday. The warning covers areas including the East Midlands, West Midlands, North West, South West, South East, and Wales. Forecasters warn of heavy rain, hail, and spray that could affect drivers, along with potential damage to buildings from lightning strikes and delays to public transport.
Localised flooding and short-term power cuts are also possible, according to the Met Office. The warning follows Tuesday's record-breaking heat, which saw the hottest May day on record for both England and Wales, with Kew Gardens reaching 35.1°C and Cardiff Bute Park hitting 32.9°C.
In light of the recent heatwave, fresh warnings have been issued about the dangers of open water after several teenagers died in incidents across the UK. Authorities urge caution, noting hidden currents and unseen hazards. Meanwhile, health officials have extended heat-health alerts for several regions until 5pm on Thursday, with amber alerts in place for the South West, South East, London, East and West Midlands, and East of England, and yellow alerts for the North West and North East.
NHS England reported a surge in online advice visits, with over 20,000 hits to its heatstroke page on bank holiday Monday alone. Parents also sought guidance on baby safety in the sun, with visits to relevant NHS webpages increasing by nearly 3,500% on Monday. Duncan Burton, chief nursing officer for England, urged vigilance, particularly for vulnerable groups such as babies, children, older people, and those with long-term conditions.
Temperatures are expected to ease in the coming days, but the public is advised to stay cautious and check on loved ones during the ongoing heat alerts.
