The Met Office has extended its weather warning for thunderstorms across the UK. The alert came into place on Wednesday (August 19) evening and was originally set to end at 10am on Thursday (August 20).
But the forecaster has now extended the warning until 1pm on Thursday. Heavy showers will continue throughout the day after a wet and gloomy start to the morning. The Met Office shared further advice in an update issued on Thursday.
Heavy showers and thunderstorms expected
The forecaster said: "Heavy showers and some thunderstorms are expected to continue across northern England and north Wales this morning before easing this afternoon.
"These are likely to bring 15 to 20 mm in less than an hour in a few places, with 30-40mm possible over several hours. These accumulations may lead to a few places seeing some flooding. Alongside the rain, there are additional hazards of lightning and hail."
Regions and impact
Regions included in the alert are East Midlands, North East, North West, Wales and Yorkshire and Humber.
The UK forecaster warned of the risk of flash flooding. Advice said: "Consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit."
It added: "Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary."
The Met Office said there is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus.
It also said the wet weather could lead to flooding of some homes and businesses, leading to some damage to buildings or structures.
There may be delays to train services are possible, as well as short-term loss of power.
Areas under the yellow warning
The Met Office yellow weather warning covers the following areas:
East Midlands: Derbyshire
North East England: Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, Stockton-on-Tees
North West England: Blackburn with Darwen, Blackpool, Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Chester, Greater Manchester, Halton, Lancashire, Merseyside, Warrington
Wales: Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Isle of Anglesey, Wrexham
Yorkshire and Humber: East Riding of Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, York
