Met Office issues yellow thunderstorm weather warning in North West

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for the north west, with heavy showers and thunderstorms expected to develop on Thursday, potentially leading to some disruption.

The warning will come into effect from midday on Thursday, and it will remain in force through to midnight that same day.

Forecasters say that spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services.

There is also a slight chance that power cuts could occur, and that other services to some homes and businesses could be lost.

Moreover, there is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.

With this, there is a small chance of fast-flowing or deep floodwater, causing danger to life.

A Met Office spokesman said: “Heavy showers and thunderstorms are likely to break out across parts of England and Wales on Thursday afternoon.

The weather warning area (Image: Met Office)

“The exact location of showers is still uncertain and some places will stay dry all day.

“However, where the showers do occur, they could be torrential, with the additional hazards of lightning, hail and gusty winds.

“The heaviest showers could result in 20mm to 30mm within an hour, with 24-hour accumulations possibly reaching as much as 70mm to 90mm where multiple showers affect the same location.

“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, such as bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, 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. 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.”