Yellow Thunderstorm Warning Issued for London and South East — Risk of Flooding, Power Cuts, and Travel Chaos
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms affecting London and the South East, warning of heavy rain, flash flooding, lightning, strong winds, and large hail.
“Areas of heavy, thundery rain may lead to disruption to transport and travel from late Friday through much of Saturday.”
What to Expect:
- Spray and sudden flooding could make roads impassable, causing road closures.
- Train and bus delays or cancellations likely where flooding or lightning occurs.
- Power outages may affect homes and businesses.
- Flooding of properties could happen quickly, with structural damage possible from lightning, winds, or hail.
- Danger to life from deep or fast-flowing floodwaters.
- Some communities may be cut off due to impassable roads.
Rainfall Details:
- Local downpours could bring 20–30mm of rain in under an hour.
- 60–90mm could fall within three hours in some areas.
- While southern regions may see rain clear early Saturday, new thunderstorms could redevelop later in the day.
Additional Hazards:
- Frequent lightning
- Gusty winds
- Large hailstones
Met Office Safety Advice:
- Prepare a flood plan and emergency kit if your area is prone to flooding.
- Secure loose outdoor items — including bins, trampolines, and garden furniture.
- Avoid unnecessary travel; check live road and rail updates before heading out.
- Prepare for power cuts — keep torches, batteries, and a phone power bank ready.
- If outside and thunder is heard, seek shelter immediately (e.g., in a car). Do not shelter under trees or tall structures.
“Be prepared for warnings to change quickly,” the Met Office advises. “Stay updated with your local forecast and official alerts.”
Regions Affected Include:
- Greater London, Kent, Surrey, East and West Sussex, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Isle of Wight, and surrounding counties
- Also affecting: East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, North East, North West, Yorkshire & Humber, and South West England