Met Office Issues Thunderstorm Warning as Flood Alerts Intensify Across England

The UK Met Office has issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms expected to affect the East of England, with the warning in effect from 10:00 BST until 03:00 the following morning. The areas under alert range from the Norfolk coast to west Northamptonshire. Officials caution that heavy showers may make driving conditions challenging, and a potential for short-term power outages exists.

A Met Office spokesperson stated, “Whilst some areas will miss these, where they develop, 20mm (0.8in) to 30mm (1.2in) of rain could fall within two to three hours.” There is also a “small chance” that some locations, particularly in the southeast, could see up to 50mm (2in) of rain over a prolonged period.

The public has been advised on safety measures, including seeking enclosed shelter if thunder is heard, avoiding trees and structures susceptible to lightning strikes, and relocating to lower ground if in elevated areas. The Met Office also recommended homeowners verify local flooding risks and prepare emergency kits in anticipation.

Travel disruptions are anticipated, with potential delays to train services and advised caution on roads. Motorists are encouraged to verify road conditions before traveling.

The warning comes amidst a wider context of flood alerts across England, with over 70 warnings in place as of Tuesday evening. Seven specific flood warnings, indicating expected flooding, were active on Tuesday evening in areas such as Bristol, and other locations across Somerset and Worcestershire.

In Northumberland, MP Ian Lavery reported “severe flooding” following extreme weather conditions, highlighting numerous calls made to his office about the flooding. The situation has prompted local councils and services, including emergency response teams, to engage in aid and assessment.

Additionally, the Met Office extended the yellow weather warning from Dorset to Kent—and as far north as Worcester and into East Anglia—forecasting possible road closures and difficult driving conditions due to spray and sudden flooding.

Liam Eslick of the Met Office emphasized the expected continuation of severe weather conditions, suggesting potential rainfall of up to 50mm and including thundery outbreaks and gusty winds up to 40mph in affected areas.

National Highways confirmed the temporary closure of the M5 in Somerset due to flooding issues earlier on Tuesday.