Thunderstorm and Heavy Rain Warning Across Southern England and Wales
A significant weather warning has been issued for thunderstorms and heavy rain affecting much of southern England and Wales. The yellow warning, which came into effect at 1 AM on Saturday, encompasses all of Wales, south-west England, the Midlands, and parts of south-east and northern England. This alert is set to last until midnight on Sunday, signaling a period of potentially hazardous weather conditions.
Cornwall: The Epicenter of Thunderstorms
As the storm system moves through the region, Cornwall has emerged as the most affected area thus far. Reports indicate that the southwestern county has experienced intense thunderstorms, with notable occurrences of large hail. According to Met Office meteorologist Becky Mitchell, “The area we have seen most of the thunderstorms so far has been Cornwall, and there’s been some large hail reported there as well.” The combination of heavy rain and hail has raised concerns about road safety, with Mitchell warning that “there is probably quite a lot of water on the road,” following reports of approximately 30mm of rainfall in the area.
Impact on Road Conditions
The heavy rainfall in Cornwall has led to tricky driving conditions, prompting caution among motorists. The accumulation of water on roads can create hazardous situations, particularly for those unfamiliar with the area or driving in such conditions. Mitchell emphasized the importance of being vigilant, stating, “The only other place I’ve seen some thunder strikes was quite early this morning, about 6 AM, and that was in the Surrey and Oxfordshire region.”
Widespread Showers and Potential Thunderstorms
As the day progresses, the weather is expected to remain dynamic. Heavy showers are currently sweeping across Wales and London, although thunderstorms have yet to materialize in these regions. However, meteorologists are keeping a close eye on the situation, as the afternoon heat could act as a catalyst for further thunderstorm development. “Typically as the afternoon goes on, we’ll see higher temperatures and the heat can help trigger the thunderstorms to kick off,” Mitchell noted, hinting at the possibility of more widespread thunderstorms later in the day.
Forecast for Rainfall and Flooding
The forecast indicates that parts of Wales and southern England could experience further heavy, thundery showers, with rainfall amounts potentially reaching between 50 to 80mm in some areas. This level of precipitation raises the risk of localised flooding, particularly in regions already saturated from previous storms. Mitchell has warned that the weather is expected to remain “unsettled” over the next few days, with ongoing potential for flooding as the storm system continues to affect the region.
Upcoming Weather Warnings
Looking ahead, another weather warning for rain will come into effect on Sunday for Wales and central south-west England. This warning will be followed by an additional alert on Monday, which will extend to cover areas further east and north. Residents are advised to stay informed about the evolving weather conditions and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Conclusion
As southern England and Wales brace for a weekend of thunderstorms and heavy rain, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. With the potential for significant rainfall and hazardous driving conditions, staying informed through reliable weather updates will be essential. Whether you’re planning to travel or simply going about your daily activities, taking precautions can help mitigate the impact of this unsettled weather.