Met Office Issues Thunderstorm Warning
The Met Office has issued a yellow UK Thunderstorm Warning for large parts of England and Wales. The alert is in place from 09:00 to 18:00 BST on Saturday, covering regions including the Midlands, southern England, and much of south Wales. The Thunderstorm warning UK highlights the risk of heavy rainfall, lightning strikes, and potential travel disruptions across the affected areas.
The warning highlights potential hazards including frequent lightning, hail, strong gusts, and sudden downpours. Rainfall could reach 10–15mm in under an hour. Some places may receive 30–40mm over several hours from successive storms.
Figure 1: Thunderstorm warning issued
Southern England and Wales Under Threat
The Met Office alert states that the weather system could cause significant disruption. The East Midlands, East of England, London, South East England, South West England, parts of Wales, and the West Midlands fall under the warning zone.
The agency noted “short-term loss of power and other services is likely.” It also warned that “lightning strikes could cause damage to buildings.”
While the UK weather warning covers wide areas, it also notes thunderstorms are difficult to forecast due to their small scale. Many areas may escape the worst conditions. Others may experience severe rainfall and flash flooding.
Events Cancelled in Kent and Sussex
Several events have already been cancelled due to the thunderstorm warning UK. The Sussex Classic 2025 at Lancing Beach Green, a surf ski race, was among those affected. This event also served as an assessment for Team GB.
Clive Gasson, the organiser, said cancelling the race was a “huge disappointment” as the event had a “record” number of entries. The Kent Wind Festival also saw disruptions. The first day of the festival, set for 7 June at Betteshanger Park in Deal, was cancelled.
Betteshanger Park management said the decision was made to “ensure everyone’s safety.” Kite flying and other activities are scheduled to resume on Sunday, 8 June.
June Brings Unsettled Weather
This alert follows a record-breaking spring. May brought only 32.8mm of rain to England, the driest in more than a century. Since early June, the UK weather has turned wet, windy, and cool.
Some regions could receive more rain on Saturday alone than during all of May. The Met Office says, “It can be hard to predict where thunderstorms will turn up.” This makes precise local forecasts difficult.
Met Office Cautions Travellers
The Met Office alert urges caution for those travelling across affected areas. Heavy rain could reduce visibility and create standing water. Drivers could face longer journey times. Train services may experience delays.
The agency said, “In places that do experience heavy showers there is the potential for disruption to transport.” Lightning, hail, and wind may add to the risks.
Lowest Level Warning Still Carries Risks
Although classified as a yellow warning, the Met Office emphasises it still carries risks. Yellow warnings are based on both likelihood and impact. The warning for Saturday indicates medium likelihood and low to medium impact.
The Met Office advised people in high-risk flash flooding zones to take precautions. Local authorities have been briefed and preparations are underway to respond to emergency scenarios.
Showers Continue Elsewhere in UK
Other parts of the UK will also experience rain, but not as heavy. The heaviest showers are expected in the south. Storms will start to ease from the west by mid to late afternoon.
The warning remains active until 18:00 BST, covering most of the daytime period. Authorities continue to monitor weather patterns closely.
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Precaution Urged Across Regions
The Met Office stressed the importance of staying informed. “Some damage to buildings and structures could be caused by lightning strikes.” Disruption could affect daily activities and scheduled events.
The weather system highlights how quickly UK weather can shift. The public is encouraged to follow live updates and remain alert to changes.
Impact on Summer Activities
The storm alert has affected more than transport and daily life. It has led to cancellations of key recreational and sporting events. The Sussex Classic 2025 and the Kent Wind Festival were both impacted by the severe forecast.
Organisers expressed concern over participant safety and property damage. The events are expected to resume activities once the weather clears.
Conclusion
The thunderstorm warning UK remains in place as authorities prepare for possible disruptions. The Met Office continues to provide updates. Residents in affected zones are urged to remain cautious and follow safety guidance.
The weather shift comes after a dry spring, marking a sharp contrast in conditions. Saturday could bring more rainfall in a few hours than the whole of May. Authorities continue to assess the evolving situation across England and Wales
