Britain Faces Flood Threats as Thunderstorm Warnings Take Effect

Large parts of Britain are under weather alerts as thunderstorms and heavy rainfall sweep across the country. The Met Office has issued yellow and amber warnings, warning of potential flash flooding, travel disruptions, and power outages.

Most of England is affected by the storm warnings, with only the southwest escaping the immediate threat today. However, that region is expected to be hit soon, with a yellow rain warning in effect from midday Sunday until early Monday morning.

London is under its first amber weather alert since January of last year, with forecasters warning of possible "torrential" rain. This alert extends across areas from Hampshire through Kent and up to Cambridge, covering the entire capital until 11am.

Rainfall could reach 20 to 30mm within just one hour in areas under the amber warning, and up to 60 to 90mm over a few hours where intense showers continue. The Met Office has warned that flooding could cut off communities, while rail, bus, and road services may be severely disrupted. Power outages are also possible.

Meanwhile, Scotland will see a yellow warning for rain from 4pm today through to midday Sunday, with another yellow thunderstorm alert covering much of England and parts of southern Scotland until 9pm tonight.

‘Intense Rainfall’ on the Way, Met Office Warns

The UK is set to face “intense rainfall” today, according to the Met Office’s chief meteorologist, Andy Page. He noted that the heavy downpours coincide with increased traffic on the roads as schools break up for summer holidays.

The AA has urged motorists to be cautious and prepare for possible travel disruption. National Rail has also advised passengers to check their routes before setting out and allow extra time for journeys, warning that speed restrictions may be enforced in areas hit by severe weather.

The unsettled conditions are expected to continue into Sunday, bringing further showers and periods of heavy, possibly thundery, rain. Forecasters predict the unstable weather pattern will persist into next week, with an improvement likely by Wednesday.