Fresh weather warning has downpours lash Berkshire and North Hampshire

A thunderstorm alert has been replaced by a rain warning

Author: Carol MusgravePublished 18th Jun 2021

Heavy rainfall has been affecting Berkshire and North Hampshire today with an earlier thunderstorm alert now replaced by a rain warning.

The Met Office says prolonged spells of heavy rain will affect the region before clearing from most areas this evening.

The warning is in place until midnight tonight.

Between 20mm and 40mm will fall quite widely with a few locations seeing 50-70mm within around 12 hours.

There is also the chance of some thunder and lightning.

The weather could affect travel with delays and cancellations to bus and train services.

Driving conditions could be difficult with some roads having to be closed.

There is also a chance of power cuts - and services to some homes and businesses could be lost.

The Met Office also warns of flooding, with damage from floodwater to homes and buildings, as well as from lightning.

The Met Office's five day forecast for the South East:

Today:

It will be cloudy with occasionally heavy, thundery rain spreading northwards through much of the day. Winds will become strong along Kent coasts later, giving a rather cool feel to the day. Maximum temperature 18 °C.

Tonight:

Outbreaks of rain will clear most areas through the evening, then mainly dry with clear spells developing overnight. Strong winds along coasts will tend to ease later. Minimum temperature 10 °C.

Saturday:

Variable cloud will allow warm sunny spells to develop. Most places will be dry until mid-afternoon. Then further heavy, perhaps thundery rain will arrive by the evening, continuing overnight. Maximum temperature 20 °C.

Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday:

Often cloudy with occasionally heavy rain or thundery showers through the period. Sometimes warm in sunny intervals between showers.

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