The Met Office has issued a new yellow weather warning for thunderstorms across the North East, adding to the existing amber heat health alert that remains in place until 11pm on June 26. The thunderstorm warning is active from midnight to 10am on Friday, June 26.
Storm Details and Hazards
According to the Met Office, thunderstorms are expected to move northeastwards across parts of England and Wales during the early hours of Friday, clearing by morning. While many areas will miss the storms, those affected could experience sudden gusty winds of 50 to 60 mph, particularly in the south and west of the warning area. Additional hazards include frequent lightning, hail, and heavy rain of 15-20 mm in an hour.
The warning covers much of England, excluding only the South East and far West corners. A separate yellow warning is in place for Scotland, lasting from midnight to midnight on Friday.
Potential Impacts and Advice
The Met Office warns of possible power cuts and disruption to essential services such as water, electricity, gas, and mobile phone networks. There is a slight chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail, or strong winds. Spray and sudden flooding may lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures. Delays and cancellations to train and bus services are also possible.
The yellow warning indicates a very low likelihood of moderate impact. The Met Office advises residents to prepare for power cuts by keeping battery candles, torches, batteries, and a mobile phone power pack on hand. Power cuts are more likely as heat-sensitive systems come under strain.
Affected Areas in the North East
The full list of affected areas includes: Darlington, Durham, Gateshead, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Newcastle upon Tyne, North Tyneside, Northumberland, Redcar and Cleveland, South Tyneside, Stockton-on-Tees, and Sunderland.
