Residents across the West Country are preparing for a significant weather event tomorrow, Thursday, June 12, as the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms lasting 13 hours. The warning covers key areas including Bristol, Somerset, and parts of Wales, signaling potential travel disruptions and localized flooding.
The alert begins at midnight and extends until 1pm, with thunderstorms expected to bring heavy rainfall shifting gradually northward through the morning. While Gloucestershire narrowly avoids the warning—its boundary stopping just outside Chepstow and reaching as far as Filton near Bristol—the majority of the South West, including Devon, Cornwall, Plymouth, and sections of the Midlands, remain within the risk zone.
The Met Office forecasts intense rainfalls, with some locations potentially receiving 10-20mm within an hour and up to 30-40mm in three hours or less. Such volumes heighten the threat of flooding and disruption. Alongside the rain, strong winds gusting between 40-50 mph around hills and coastal areas may exacerbate the hazards.
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Chief Meteorologist Neil Armstrong highlighted the gravity of the system: “Heavy rain and thunderstorms will spread across southwest England, Wales, and later into Northern Ireland. Rapid downpours could deposit 40mm or more within a few hours, increasing disruption risks. Additional afternoon thunderstorms will swiftly track northwards, accompanied by hail and lightning, while temperatures remain warm, near 26 to 27°C in the northern Midlands and parts of north London.”
Deputy Chief Meteorologist Tony Wisson added caution for Friday’s outlook: “Heavy, thundery showers will likely affect southeastern England and East Anglia, moving northeast overnight. While precise locations remain uncertain, some regions could experience 30 to 50mm of rain or more in a short period, raising risks of surface water flooding alongside lightning, strong winds, and hail hazards. We will update warnings as forecasting confidence improves.”
Residents in affected areas should stay alert for weather updates and be prepared for sudden hazardous conditions throughout Thursday and Friday.