Double yellow thunderstorm warning for the East of England

The Met Office is urging everyone to beware over the next couple of days

Author: Helen DownPublished 16th Jun 2021

Two back-to-back yellow thunderstorm warnings have been issued for the East of England.

The first is due to come into force from 6pm on Wednesday June 16. It is expected to last until midnight on Thursday, June 17.

The second kicks in on Friday, June 18 at 9am and is due to end the same time the next day.

The Met Office says intense thunderstorms could sweep across the region, affecting transport, power supply, and cause flooding.

What to expect

  • There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail and strong winds
  • Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services
  • Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
  • There is a small chance that some communities become cut off by flooded roads
  • There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost

"Although there remains significant uncertainty in location and timing, areas of thunderstorms are expected to move northeast across parts of England and Wales from late Wednesday through to Friday morning.

"Whilst not all locations will be affected, some intense thunderstorms may occur during this period with torrential rain, hail, frequent lightning and strong gusty winds possible.

"Rainfall totals of around 30 mm could fall in an hour, with some locations potentially receiving around 50 mm in 2-3 hours, although these will be fairly isolated.

"Another spell of thundery rain is expected to push north across England and east Wales through Friday morning, persisting for much of the day, before clearing early on Saturday.

"There is some uncertainty in storm coverage, particularly western extent, but where they do develop torrential rain, intense thunderstorms, hail and frequent lightning are all possible. Rainfall totals of 20-40 mm, perhaps 60 mm in a few areas, are possible in 12 hours.

"With the most intense storms, 30-40 mm could fall in an hour or two. The storms should clear into the North Sea during Saturday morning."

The Met Office

There is more advice on travelling in storms and staying safe in thunder and lightening on the Met Office website.

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