A yellow warning for thunderstorms has been issued for the North East, covering a nine-hour period on Friday. The Met Office alert runs from midday to 9pm on Friday, August 28, and includes areas in County Durham.
The warning says there are likely to be "thunderstorms in a few places leading to some disruption and possible flooding". Among the North East areas included are Darlington, Durham, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, and Stockton-on-Tees.
Potential disruption and hazards
People are being warned that roads could be affected by spray, standing water or hail, and delays to train services are possible. The Met Office said: "While many areas will miss the heaviest downpours, heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop during Friday afternoon and evening. The focus of showers and thunderstorms over will be northern England and much of Wales during the early afternoon before extending over central and eastern England through the afternoon."
"Thunderstorms will bring 10-20 mm of rain in a short period in a few places with 30-40 mm possible should anywhere see repeated downpours. Lightning and hail will be additional hazards in a few locations. Heavy showers and thunderstorms will gradually ease during Friday evening."
Flooding and power loss risks
The weather experts said flooding of a few homes and businesses is likely, leading to some damage to buildings or structures. There could also be some short-term loss of power and other services.
Issuing advice, the Met Office further added: "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."
"Consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. 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."
Coverage area
The full yellow thunderstorm warning also covers Yorkshire and Humber, the East Midlands, eastern areas including Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Peterborough, London and South East England as well as many parts of the North West, West Midlands and Wales.
