Households in six areas of the UK have been advised to collect batteries and torches on Tuesday, as the Met Office issued a thunderstorm warning spanning nine hours.
Weather warning details
The new weather warning will be in place from 12pm until 9pm on Tuesday, August 4, affecting large parts of Northern Ireland. The unsettled conditions may impact homes and businesses, with the possibility of damage to buildings and structures from flooding. There is also a chance of short-term loss of power and other services on Tuesday.
According to the national weather forecaster, heavy showers and thunderstorms will also develop for parts of England and Wales, although not everyone will see them. Totals could reach up to 30 mm in places.
Met Office statement
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."
The forecaster explained: "Showers will develop Tuesday morning, becoming heavy and locally thundery into the afternoon. Whilst some areas will miss these, where they do develop they will be slow-moving, bringing 20-30 mm of rain in an hour or two. Strong and gusty winds and hail will also be possible with the heaviest showers. Showers should slowly ease from the west into the evening."
Preparation advice
Issuing guidance for Britons in the event of any expected power cuts, the Met Office said: "Make sure you have multiple torches along with extra batteries."
People are advised to take several precautions ahead of any potential power outage, including ensuring mobile phones are fully charged so they can be used in an emergency. Important documents should be kept in a safe and easily accessible place, while fridges and freezers should remain closed, ideally covered with a blanket, to help preserve their contents for several hours.
Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbours and make sure they are prepared for any disruption. In addition, appliances such as irons, ovens, electric heaters and fryers should be switched off, as they could pose a safety risk if power is restored while no one is present.
