Thunderstorm to hit UK as Met Office issues warning over possible flooding

Devon and Cornwall could suffer power cuts and travel disruption

Weather forecasters have issued a yellow warning over thunderstorms in southwest England.

The Met Office said a short-term loss of power and other services was likely, as well as some flooding of homes and businesses.

Forecasters also warned of “a good chance” driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus.

The yellow warning, which applies to Cornwall and much of Devon and runs until 8pm, also means delays to train services are possible.

Damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes was probable, according to the Met Office.

Swathes of East and West Sussex were hit by storms on Thursday, with heavy downpours and lightning.

Scattered heavy showers and thunderstorms are forecast for Friday afternoon.

“Although many places will remain dry or see little rainfall, some sites could see 20-30mm in an hour and up to 50mm in 2 to 3 hours along with lightning,” the Met Office said.

Rail services could be delayed (PA)

(KEV REILLY via REUTERS)

A yellow weather warning for rain is also in place in Northern Ireland on Saturday. There is a “small chance” that homes and businesses could be flooded, causing damage to some buildings.

There and in western Scotland, there is “a small chance” of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life on Saturday, according to the Met Office, which also warned that spray and flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

On Thursday the organisation, together with the Irish and Dutch forcasting services, announced the new list of storm names for 2022-23.