The Met Office has issued a weather warning for parts of Wales, south west England and The Midlands, with intense downpours and thunderstorms possible this afternoon.
The Met Office warning, which also covers Kington in Herefordshire says:
“Heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop during the afternoon across parts of southwest England, Wales and the West Midlands before slowly dying out during the evening.
“Many places will miss the worst, but where they do develop, some slow-moving and intense downpours are possible, giving accumulations of 20-30 mm in around 1 hour, and a lower likelihood of 40-50 mm in 2-3 hours in a few locations.
“Frequent lightning strikes and hail are also possible.”
Advice from the Met Office:
Consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.
Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Before gusty winds arrive, check to ensure moveable objects or temporary structures are well secured. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, gazebos, sheds, and fences.
Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.
People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
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.
Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.
More Details – https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/uk-warnings#?date=2024-05-21&id=efbd642b-f1ef-423d-88df-cdac83203364
