Households in parts of England could face a risk of power cuts this week as thunderstorms threaten to disrupt the power supply, according to the Met Office. The warning comes as a 'divide' between the return of hot weather and changeable stormy conditions splits the UK.
Weather Divide Across the UK
The Met Office forecasts that sunshine will return at the end of this week, with temperatures set to soar to a possible 30°C by Friday, particularly in the southeast. However, other areas could see thunderstorms, creating a stark contrast in weather patterns.
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree explained: “This week’s contrasting weather of both heat, rain, and potential thunderstorms is a result of a low pressure system influencing the UK from the northwest. The southerly flow stalls a front over the west of the UK whilst allowing temperatures to build in the southeast.”
Friday's Heat and Thunderstorm Risk
Crabtree added: “Friday is set to be the warmest day of the week, but it’s important to note that peak temperatures could be impacted by cloud cover. Temperatures are likely to range from 26 to 28°C, with the potential to approach 30°C in parts of southeast England. Elsewhere temperatures will remain closer to average but could be warm at times in parts of Wales and the west Midlands. Of course, the picture for the weekend will become clearer closer to the time, so keep an eye on our forecasts as the week goes on.”
Preparing for Thunderstorms
During thunderstorms, the Met Office usually issues advice on preparing for extreme weather conditions, including a risk of power cuts or temporary loss of power, as well as flash flooding. It recommends that households prepare spare batteries, a torch, a charged mobile phone, and a spare battery pack in case of thunderstorms.
Detailed Forecast
The Met Office added in its forecast: “Thursday will bring a fine and dry start for much of England, east Wales and eastern Scotland, with the best of the sunshine towards the southeast. At the same time, cloud and rain will become more extensive across Northern Ireland, western Scotland and west England and Wales, with some heavy rain possible. Temperatures on Thursday will remain near normal in the north and west but become warm to very warm and increasingly humid in the southeast, with highs into the upper 20 degrees Celsius possible. There is also a small chance of an isolated thunderstorm later in the day.”
“On Friday, further rain is expected across parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and northwest England, gradually becoming brighter later with a few showers. Elsewhere, much of England and Wales will start largely fine, though there is an increasing risk of thunderstorms developing, particularly in the southeast.”
Households are urged to stay updated with the latest forecasts as the week progresses.
