Parts of the UK are set for thunderstorms after a weekend where temperatures exceeded 30C in some areas.
The Met Office has issued thunderstorm warnings for parts of the UK, with Monday set to be the hottest day of the year so far.
The weather is partly as a result of Tropical Storm Debby, which brought flooding to the eastern United States, and has shifted the jet stream further south.
The Met Office has issued two thunderstorm warnings, saying: “Thunderstorms are expected to develop over western parts of the UK and move northeast during the second half of Sunday night becoming organised into Monday morning.
“Although not all parts of the warning area are expected to see them, an area of increasingly organised thunderstorms is likely to produce a combination of frequent lightning, heavy rain, hail and short periods of strong winds.
“Some torrential downpours are likely, with 20-40 mm in places, and a potential for 40-60 mm of rain to fall in 1-2 hours very locally, with hail up to 2 cm in diameter.
“Thunderstorms are expected clear towards the northeast by Monday afternoon.”
These maps show where thunderstorms are predicted to hit on Monday:-
Read more: Tropical Storm Debby bringing unexpected weather to UK – see the forecast (Manchester Evening News)
What should you do if a thunderstorm hits your area?
Alongside its yellow weather warnings, the Met Office has issued advice on what to do if a thunderstorm hits your area.
It says: “Consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.”
It also advises to prepare to protect your property and people from injury.
In the event of gusty winds, people are advised to make sure moveable objects or temporary structures, such as bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, gazebos, sheds, and fences are well secured.
A cluster of thunderstorms is moving north across the Bay of Biscay today and these may affect Ireland and some western parts of the UK this evening 🌩️
Whilst most places won’t see much rain associated with these thundery showers, frequent lightning is possible for some ⛈️ pic.twitter.com/lN4Fy8oklk
— Met Office (@metoffice) August 11, 2024
It advises people to avoid delays by checking road coditions if driving and timetables if travelling by train or bus and amending travel plans if necessary.
It adds: “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.”