Gloucestershire is under a thunderstorm warning today, Monday, May 12, as the Met Office releases a 10-hour severe weather alert covering much of England and Wales. The warning is active from noon until 10pm, with the potential for heavy rainfall causing flooding, hail, lightning, and possible local power outages.
Forecasters predict intense downpours delivering 40-50mm of rain within one to two hours—equivalent to more than half of the average monthly rainfall of 70mm for May. This warning extends beyond Gloucestershire to most of Wales, the West Midlands, and several southern counties.
The thunderstorms are expected to develop following a Sunday afternoon of lighter showers hitting the Reading and Bristol areas. According to Met Office meteorologist Becky Mitchell, the hot and humid conditions in southern regions will fuel these thundery showers. Rainfall rates could reach 20-30mm within an hour, with heavier bursts possible between 40-50mm over short periods.
“There’s a real risk of flooding and disruption if these heavy showers linger in one area,” Mitchell explained, noting that hail and local power cuts are additional hazards accompanying the storms.
Following Monday’s unsettled weather, conditions are expected to improve from Tuesday onward. Northern Ireland and Scotland may even see their hottest days of the year so far, with daytime highs rising into the low to mid-20s Celsius.
The Met Office summarized: “Scattered showers and thunderstorms will develop this afternoon. While mostly fast-moving, some thunderstorms may produce intense rain totals of 20-30mm in less than an hour and 40-50mm within 1-2 hours in localized spots. Lightning, hail, and gusty winds are additional hazards.” Showers and storms should ease through the evening.
Forecast highlights:
- Today: Warm and sunny spells with scattered heavy showers and thunderstorms developing by afternoon, risk of hail, maximum 23°C.
- Tonight: Showers and thunderstorms gradually clearing, mild with some fog patches, minimum 5°C.
- Tuesday: Early fog clears for a mostly dry, warm day with sunny spells and a few afternoon showers, maximum 24°C.
- Wednesday to Friday: Fine and settled weather continues with dry, sunny days and clear nights; temperatures remain above average with cooler nights.
Residents in Gloucestershire and affected areas are advised to remain vigilant throughout the warning period and prepare for potential disruptions caused by severe weather.