Thunderstorms are expected to batter parts of the UK as the Met Office issues yellow weather warnings, breaking the sweltering heat in some areas.
Scotland and Northern Ireland on Alert
Much of Scotland and Northern Ireland has been placed under a yellow weather warning, with the Met Office forecasting intense thunderstorms through Thursday and into early Friday.
The warnings, which began in Scotland on Wednesday, rolled out across parts of Northern Ireland from midday Thursday, remaining in effect until 10pm.
Heavy downpours are expected to cause localised disruptions, particularly in areas already experiencing the brunt of the ongoing summer heat.
“Some areas will continue to experience their fourth heatwave of the summer so far, with Thursday remaining warm or very warm for many, though cooler near coasts.
Temperatures could still reach 30 °C in eastern England, though many areas will be a few degrees cooler than earlier in the week,” said Paul Gundersen, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office.
Downpours, But the Heat Lingers
Despite the stormy skies, warm temperatures aren’t going anywhere just yet. Even in places hit by heavy rain, the fourth heatwave of the year is holding strong.
In Scotland, rainfall could reach 20 to 40mm within just an hour, and as much as 70mm over two hours. Meanwhile, Northern Ireland is expecting up to 40mm in an hour, with totals possibly hitting 50mm.
Potential Disruptions Ahead
People living in affected areas are urged to take precautions. The Met Office is warning of possible flash flooding, travel delays, power cuts, strong gusts, and of course, thunder.
Heads up for commuters and residents: Make travel plans early, stay weather-aware, and brace for sudden changes in conditions.
Into the weekend, while the South remains mostly sunny and hot, northern regions are likely to see more cloud and drizzle as the thunderstorms clear.
Weekend Forecast Snapshot:
- Friday: Storms ease off; cloudier skies up North.
- Saturday: Highs of 30°C in southern England.
- Sunday: Temperatures dip slightly to around 29°C.
Yellow Weather Warning Areas:
Scotland
- Angus
- Dundee
- Fife
- Perth and Kinross
- Aberdeen
- Aberdeenshire
- Moray
- Highland
Northern Ireland
- County Antrim
- County Armagh
- County Down
