Thunderstorms to Bring Torrential Rain Across UK, Millions Expected to be Affected

Strategic Insights -

Millions of people across the UK are set to endure torrential rain and thunderstorms in the coming days, with forecasters warning that as much as half a typical month's rainfall could fall in a short period of time. The Met Office has issued yellow thunderstorm warnings for vast swathes of the country, with many counties expected to experience significant delays to transport services and a risk of flooded roads.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Met Office has issued yellow thunderstorm warnings for most of Wales, the south-west of England (excluding Cornwall), and the whole of Northern Ireland from 12am to 1pm today.
  • Another thunderstorm warning has been issued for East Anglia, Essex, Kent, and much of Greater London and Sussex from 3pm on Friday to 6am on Saturday.
  • Up to 50mm of rain could fall in the duration of the third warning, with a "small chance" of communities being cut off by flooded roads and homes and businesses being flooded quickly.
  • Forecasters expect the storms to bring significant delays to train services and the possibility of short-term power loss.
  • The Met Office warns that rain, heavy and thundery at times, will continue north and east throughout the day, with brighter conditions behind and some heavy showers at times.

Statistics:

  • Up to 50mm of rain could fall in the duration of the third thunderstorm warning.
  • The Met Office has issued yellow thunderstorm warnings for vast swathes of the country, covering most of Wales, the south-west of England (excluding Cornwall), and the whole of Northern Ireland.
  • The third thunderstorm warning will remain in place from 3pm on Friday to 6am on Saturday.
  • The Met Office expects the storms to bring significant delays to transport services, including train services.

Sources:

  • Met Office forecast for Thursday: "Rain, heavy and thundery at times, will continue north and east throughout the day."
  • Met Office forecast for Friday to Sunday: "Staying warm and humid on Friday with another spell of heavy and thundery rain developing, especially later. Staying changeable over the weekend with some further rain, but feeling fresher."
  • Met Office weather maps: Vast swathes of the UK under yellow thunderstorm warnings from today until Saturday.