Weather warning as Britain braces for thunderstorms and flooding

LONDON July 31: Forecasters are warning that more thunderstorms and flooding could be on the way in some parts of the UK.
There was extreme weather at both ends of the spectrum across the country last week, with an immense heatwave that broke the all-time temperature record quickly followed by a deluge of heavy rain.

Flooding and travel chaos befell northern areas over the weekend due to the sudden change in conditions, and more of both could be on the cards on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Severe weather warnings have been put in place by the Met Office in England, Wales and Scotland, with thundery downpours, lightning strikes, strong winds and hail all expected.

Between 20mm (0.8in) and 30mm (1.2in) of rain could fall in just an hour in some areas, which will make for treacherous driving conditions and possible disruption for train passengers.

Power cuts could also be an issue, and there is a “small chance that homes and business could be flooded”.

“Heavy showers and thunderstorms will continue to spread northeast across England and Wales, whilst also increasing in frequency during the day,” the Met Office said.

“In a few places there is the potential for 20mm to 30mm of rain to fall in an hour and 30mm to 50mm (2in) of rain to fall in three hours. Hail is also possible, mainly over northern England.”