Severe Weather Alert: Thunderstorms, Heavy Rain, and Hail to Hit Southern England
The Met Office has issued a yellow thunderstorm warning for southern England, predicting a day of disruptive weather including heavy rain, lightning, and even hail. The alert will be in effect from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Thursday, impacting a wide area and potentially causing travel delays and localised flooding.
What to Expect:
- Heavy Rainfall: Expect intense bursts of rain, which could lead to flash flooding in some areas.
- Lightning Strikes: The risk of lightning is significant, so caution is advised, particularly outdoors.
- Hail: Hailstones of varying sizes are possible, which could damage property and crops.
Affected Areas: The warning covers a substantial portion of southern England, including (but not limited to) areas in Hampshire, Sussex, Surrey, Kent, Essex, and parts of London. Specific locations within these counties are particularly vulnerable and residents are urged to stay informed.
Travel Disruptions: The Met Office warns that the thunderstorms could cause significant disruption to travel. Drivers are advised to be extra cautious on the roads, allowing for longer journey times due to potential flooding and reduced visibility. Train services may also be affected, and passengers should check with their operators for updates before travelling. Public transport may experience delays or cancellations.
Safety Advice:
- Stay Indoors: When possible, seek shelter indoors during the peak of the thunderstorms.
- Avoid Exposed Areas: Stay away from open fields, parks, and other exposed areas where you could be struck by lightning.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Make sure any loose outdoor items, such as garden furniture and bins, are secured to prevent them from being blown away by strong winds.
- Monitor Updates: Stay up-to-date with the latest weather forecasts and warnings from the Met Office and local authorities.
Why a Yellow Warning? A yellow warning signifies a moderate risk of adverse weather conditions. While disruption is likely, it is not expected to be as severe as an amber or red warning. However, it’s important to take the warning seriously and prepare for potential impacts.
The Met Office is continuing to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates as necessary. Remember to check their website (www.metoffice.gov.uk) and local news sources for the latest information. Staying informed and taking precautions can help you stay safe during this period of severe weather.