Thunderstorm warning for Scotland and North England from Sunday
Heatwaves continue across other parts of the UK
Last updated 12th Aug 2022
There is a warning of thunderstorms beginning in Scotland and Northern Ireland from Sunday afternoon.
The Met Office have released a yellow warning of thunderstorms for much of the UK, they are saying "hail and frequent lightning are also possible" as another potential hazard.
As the hot weather subsides in the north, the change brings with it the risk of thunderstorms and the chance of some surface water flooding.
The warnings will begin from 1200 on Sunday in Scotland and Northern Ireland, with subsequent warnings issued further south, including much of England and Wales, from early on Monday.
Heatwaves are also expected to continue across the UK and it is advised that people continue to remain safe during these hot temperatures.
50mm of rain in a three-hour period is expected
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly said: “The current hot weather will make way for a thundery breakdown from the west, which will spread south and east in the early part of next week. Ahead of this, isolated but intense thunderstorms are possible Sunday and Monday.
“The warnings highlight the chance of some places seeing around 50mm of rain falling in a three-hour period in the north, with some areas further south possibly seeing around 30mm of rain in a three-hour period. Hail and frequent lightning are also possible as part of these downpours and represents an additional hazard.
“We’re continuing to monitor how these thundery showers develop on Tuesday and Wednesday next week. There’s a chance of some quite intense downpours at times for some areas and we’re refining the likely location of these in the coming days.”
There is also a chance that the thunder could bring with it some flooding
Heatwaves continue across the UK
The Extreme heat warning remains in place until Sunday, with much of England and Wales likely to see temperatures into the low-to-mid 30s Celsius, with a chance of an isolated 36C on Saturday and Sunday. The heat warning highlights the potential impacts these levels of heat can have on health, transport and infrastructure.
Heatwave criteria is being met, with temperatures widely into the high 20s Celsius low 30s Celsius across England. Scotland and Northern Ireland could reach official heatwave criteria by Friday.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Frank Saunders said: “Persistent high pressure over the UK means temperatures have been rising day-on-day through this week and it is important people plan for the heat. Temperatures are expected to peak at 35C on Friday and possibly 36C on Saturday and Sunday. Even beyond this, hot conditions will persist in parts of the south of the UK as far as late Monday, and it will turn increasingly humid.
“We will also see some warm nights, with temperatures in some places staying in the low 20s Celsius.”
Extreme heat advice
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a Level 3 Heat Health Alert, which is designed to help healthcare professional manage through periods of extreme weather. The UKHSA are advising people to look out for vulnerable people, including older people, young children and those with underlying health conditions.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said:
“We want everyone to enjoy the warm weather safely when it arrives, but remember that heat can have a fast impact on health.
“It’s important to ensure that people who are more vulnerable – elderly people who live alone and people with underlying health conditions – are prepared for coping during the hot weather.
“The most important advice is to ensure they stay hydrated, keep cool and take steps to prevent their homes from overheating.”
Mark Hardingham, Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) said "The increase in temperatures has seen fire services respond to a large number of fire and water rescue incidents. Many are preventable so we are asking the public to take steps to ensure they are keeping themselves and their communities safe.
He further advices:
- Don’t use barbecues when out in the countryside or at local parks. Be careful not discard cigarettes without making sure they are fully stubbed out and don't drop litter
- Jumping in for a swim can lead to cold water shock and accidental drowning, regardless of swimming ability
- If you see a fire in the open, even a small one, or someone in trouble in the water call 999 and ask for the fire service so we can respond quickly, but we urge people to help us prevent incidents, so we all remain safe
National Highways Head of Road Safety, Jeremy Phillips said: “It is always very important to plan ahead for your journey"
“We also advise everyone should check their vehicles, such as tyres, coolant and oil levels, before heading out.”
Dr. Justine Shotton, President, British Veterinary Association, said: “Whilst it’s wonderful to make the most of the warm weather, please don’t forget to give some extra attention to pets, many of whom may struggle as the temperature rises."