Greater Manchester and the rest of the country could be hit by severe thunderstorms on Thursday with heavy rain likely to cause flooding and road problems, Met Office forecasters said.
A ‘yellow’ thunderstorm warning has been issued for most of England and Wales from midnight on Wednesday, with the expected deluge expected to put an end to sunny days.
The Met Office issued a “yellow” thunderstorm warning covering London and the south-east on Wednesday and extended it to the rest of the country the following day, Thursday, when up to 50mm of rain could fall in the north.
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People are being warned of the risk of flooding, road closures and even power cuts in the worst-hit areas.
In issuing the ‘yellow’ weather warning for Thursday, the Met Office said on its website: “Although there is some uncertainty, thunderstorms could affect south-east England during the early hours of Thursday, possibly extending to parts of East Anglia. When this occurs, rainfall accumulations of 25-40mm are possible in 1 hour, with a small risk of more than 60mm in 2-3 hours, and accompanied by frequent lightning at times.
“Elsewhere, an area of ​​torrential rain is expected to develop and move north-east across parts of Wales, the Midlands and northern England. Rainfall will be heavy and at times thundery, and will persist until Thursday morning before easing around midday. Some areas could receive rainfall accumulations of 25-50mm in a few hours.
“Heavy showers and scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop through Thursday afternoon and evening across parts of central, southern and eastern England, and possibly also south Wales. This rainfall could produce 50mm or more in 1-2 hours, as well as strong winds, large hail and a risk of surface water flooding.”
The alert warns that sea spray and flash flooding could cause difficult driving conditions, road closures and the cancellation of train and bus services. It also warns of the risk of flash flooding, lightning, hail and high winds.
“Fast or deep flood waters are possible, causing danger to life,” the bulletin said.
