Warning: Yellow

To expect: Thunderstorms

Affected areas: South West England

Start time estimate: Thursday 6pm

End time estimate: Thursday 11pm

The Met Office has announced a Yellow thunderstorm warning for South West England for Thursday.

On Thursday, a Yellow weather warning is in effect from 6pm until 11pm. The forecast suggests the region concerned will experience frequent lightning strikes and heavy downpours.

The Yellow warning for thunderstorms was announced at 12:13pm on Wednesday, June 24.

A Met Office forecast said: “After another very hot day, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to move towards southwest England during Thursday evening and night. Whilst many areas will miss them, thunderstorms may produce sudden, gusty winds with 50 to 60 mph possible. Frequent lightning, hail and heavy rain are additional hazards. Impacts are slightly more likely towards the south coast of Devon and Cornwall.”

What to expect

There is a small chance that buildings and temporary structures could be damaged by the sudden arrival of strong winds; There is a chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus; Probably some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes; Some short term loss of power and other services is possible; A small chance of flooding of a few homes and businesses, leading to some damage to buildings or structures.

What should you do during intense thunderstorms?

Consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Before gusty winds arrive, check to ensure moveable objects or temporary structures are well secured. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, gazebos, sheds, and fences. Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary. People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items. If you find yourself outside and hear thunder, protect yourself by finding a safe enclosed shelter (such as a car). Do not shelter under or near trees, or other structures which may be struck by lightning. If you are on an elevated area move to lower ground. Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area. For further details see Met Office Warnings & Advice.

What is a yellow weather warning?

The Met Office has three categories of weather warning, depending on the likely impact of severe weather and also how likely it is to strike in a particular area.

A yellow warning is issued when weather conditions are expected to disrupt travel and traffic and may impact on daily routines but are not likely to pose a risk to life or property.

An amber warning is more severe and advises people to think about changing their plans to minimise the risk.

A red warning means weather conditions are expected to be dangerous with widespread damage to property and a risk to life, with the public usually advised to avoid travelling.

The Yellow weather alert for thunderstorms will remain in place until 11pm on Thursday.