Large parts of England and Wales are bracing for thunderstorms over the next two days, with the Met Office issuing warnings for frequent lightning, large hail, and heavy rainfall, Sky News reports.
The first warning, in effect from 12pm to 8pm on Friday, covers a vast area stretching from the West Midlands to the South East, including the South West and western Wales, encompassing Cardiff and Swansea.
The Met Office warns that lightning strikes could damage buildings, while heavy rainfall, potentially up to 40mm in three hours, could lead to hazardous driving conditions with spray, standing water, and hail. Power outages and train delays are also anticipated.
“A few thundery showers may be present across southern and southeast England early on Friday, but from the middle of the day they are expected to develop more widely within the warning area,” the Met Office said. “Whilst some places will remain dry, where thundery showers do occur, they will bring frequent lightning, gusty winds, potentially some large hail, as well as brief spells of heavy rain.”
A second, even broader warning covers the entire country of Wales, stretching as far as Liverpool, Stoke-on-Trent, Leicester, and Cornwall. It remains in effect for 23 hours, from 1am to midnight on Saturday.
This warning highlights the potential for significant disruption with thunderstorms and heavy showers, including the possibility of rapid flooding, fast-flowing floodwater, and a small chance of communities being cut off by flooded roads. Power outages and transportation disruptions are also likely.
The Met Office urges residents to take precautions during the storms, stay informed about the latest weather updates, and be prepared for potential disruptions to daily life.
