Severe thunderstorms are on the horizon, bringing the risk of flooding to parts of England after an exceptionally wet week.
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Parts of England are bracing for severe thunderstorms that could lead to further rain and flooding on Thursday. This weather alert follows the wettest week the country has experienced in seven months, with a yellow warning issued until 5 PM.
The warning affects northern England, the Midlands, and parts of Wales.
Current Weather Warnings and Flood Alerts
The Met Office has warned that while many areas may avoid the worst of the thunderstorms, certain regions could see intense rainfall. Rainfall of 30-60mm is possible within a single hour.
As of midday, there are nine flood alerts in effect, primarily impacting areas near the River Trent and River Tame in the West Midlands, indicating a significant risk of flooding.
This situation marks a notable weather shift. Recent statistics reveal that England has just experienced its wettest week since February.
Regions in the North West, South East, and South West reported over 35mm of rainfall between August 27 and September 2. This has contributed to rising river levels across nearly all monitored sites. However, it is important to note that just over a third of these sites remain below normal levels for this time of year.
Impact of Recent Weather Patterns
Despite the surge in rainfall, August’s overall precipitation was only 42% of the long-term average. This highlights the prolonged dry and hot conditions experienced earlier this year. The extreme weather has significantly impacted the environment and agriculture, leading to hosepipe bans, drought orders, and poor harvests, alongside low water levels in reservoirs.
According to the Met Office, both spring and summer of 2025 were recorded as the warmest on record for the UK. Additionally, spring was the second driest since rainfall records began in 1836. Such conditions have set the stage for the current thunderstorms, raising concerns about potential flooding and travel disruptions.
Advice for Residents and Travelers
Stephen Dixon, a spokesperson for the Met Office, stated, “Some heavy and at times thundery rain is moving gradually northeast today, with the potential to bring some impacts for some. There’s a yellow warning for thunderstorms in force until 5 PM today covering much of Wales as well as northern and central parts of England.”
He added, “While not everyone will see the highest totals in the warning area, some could see 30-60mm of rain in an hour, with hail and lightning presenting additional hazards.” This warning emphasizes the potential for difficult travel conditions and localized flooding.
Drivers are strongly advised to check road conditions and adjust travel plans accordingly. Homeowners are urged to secure movable items like bins, fences, and garden furniture to prevent injury from potential strong winds and flooding.
Conclusion
As the day progresses, the threat of severe thunderstorms looms large over numerous regions in England. Residents and travelers alike should remain vigilant and prepared for sudden weather changes. The ongoing situation will be closely monitored, and updates will be provided as necessary.
