The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms with thousands of Brits braced for heavy downpours and lightning over the next two days
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms, with thousands of Britons preparing for heavy rainfall and lightning over the coming two days.
The forecaster has implemented the alert from 3am on Wednesday, covering vast areas of England and Wales, including much of the East of England.
Cambridgeshire is covered by the warning alongside nearby Peterborough and Suffolk.
Residents have been cautioned about disruption and possible power cuts on Wednesday and Thursday, as flooding is also anticipated.
Wednesday’s warning remains in effect until 10pm and encompasses 59 local authorities. An additional yellow warning has been issued from 6am on Thursday.
The forecaster said there was “a small risk of flooding and disruption from thunderstorms on Wednesday,” encouraging Britons to prepare for potential floods and disruption caused by lightning strikes.
The Met Office warned: “Homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes or hail.
“Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services”.
British households have been advised to take precautions ahead of the storms and prepare an emergency flood kit, including essentials needed should a power cut occur.
Ahead of potential lightning strikes the Met Office say: “If you find yourself outside and hear thunder, protect yourself by finding a safe enclosed shelter (such as a car).
“Do not shelter under or near trees, or other structures which may be struck by lightning. If you are on an elevated area, move to lower ground.”
Despite the wet conditions, warm temperatures are still forecast on Wednesday, following from recent heatwaves.
The forecast for Wednesday says: “Cloudy start to Wednesday with heavy or thundery showers. Cloud lifts into the afternoon, bringing some brighter or sunny spells, although scattered heavy or thundery showers still possible. Feeling warm. Maximum temperature 25C.”
The following days are also likely to see “spells of heavy rain, some thunderstorms and strong winds,” according to the Met Office.
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