Met Office issues urgent storm warning with 54 areas facing thunder and lightning | Weather | News

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms this evening due to the heat and humidity on Saturday 27 June. The warning is already active and will be valid from 20.11 to 23.00 this evening.

Storm warning affects everyone much of central and eastern England, 54 fields. In its warning, the Met Office said: “Today’s heat and humidity have produced some thunderstorms across central and eastern England this evening, which will move rapidly north-eastwards. Most locations will not be affected, but where they occur, frequent short-lived lightning, strong gusty winds, large hail and heavy rain are possible. Thunderstorms are expected to clear the area over the North Sea later this evening.”

Britons have been warned that thunderstorms this afternoon and early evening could cause disruption in some places. This includes delays and some cancellations of train and bus services, as well as power outages to homes and businesses and slight disruptions to other services.

There is also the risk of flash flooding and splash water, which could lead to difficult driving conditions and road closures.

“There is a very small chance that homes and businesses will be quickly flooded and some buildings will be damaged by floodwaters, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds,” the Met Office added.

Britons are asked to check that movable objects or temporary structures, including bins, garden furniture and fences, are well secured and to change travel plans if necessary. With the threat of power outages, the Met Office is also encouraging people to pack flashlights, batteries, mobile phone power supplies and other essential items. A flood plan and emergency flood kit are also encouraged for those living in areas at risk of flooding.