The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms across large parts of England and Wales, with flooding and lightning strikes expected to cause disruption on Wednesday.
The alert comes into force at 3am and runs until 10pm, covering 59 regions and local authorities. Affected areas span the East Midlands, East of England, London & South East England, North West England, South West England, Wales, the West Midlands and Yorkshire.
Risk of flooding and power cuts
The forecaster said there was “a small risk of flooding and disruption from thunderstorms on Wednesday,” with residents urged to be prepared for possible flooding and disruption from lightning strikes.
“Homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes or hail,” the Met Office warned, adding: “Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services”.
There was also a “slight” chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost, the warning continued.
Heavy rain and hail possible
As much as 50mm of rain could fall in 2-3 hours in some areas, with surface water flooding a risk across parts of the country. "Large hail and frequent lightning are also possible," the forecaster said.
"A band of heavy showers and thunderstorms is expected to move northwards on Wednesday morning. A drier, brighter interlude may follow, but with a chance of further showers and thunderstorms breaking out during the afternoon," the Met Office warning said. "Many places will miss these, but where they do occur they may be intense."
The showers and thunderstorms will drift northwards and ease during the evening, according to the latest predictions.
Advice for residents
Brits were urged to take precautions ahead of the storms, with those in flood-prone areas told to prepare a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. People are also being told to prepare for power cuts by gathering essentials such as torches and batteries, and a mobile phone power pack.
“If you find yourself outside and hear thunder, protect yourself by finding a safe enclosed shelter (such as a car). Do not shelter under or near trees, or other structures which may be struck by lightning. If you are on an elevated area, move to lower ground,” the warning said.
