Overview
- Two overlapping Met Office yellow thunderstorm warnings came into force from 11am on Sunday covering almost the whole UK with differing end times for England and Wales and for Scotland and Northern Ireland.
- Forecasters say heavy, thundery showers could drop 10–40mm or more in places with hail, frequent lightning and gusts up to about 35–45mph, creating a high chance of short-term power loss and damage to a few buildings.
- Major outdoor events including Reading, Leeds and Creamfields have been hit by heavy rain, muddy campsites and some local cancellations, with social media showing festivalgoers struggling on soaked routes and fields.
- The Environment Agency has issued multiple flood alerts warning that flooding of some homes and businesses is possible and advising people in at-risk areas to prepare flood plans and emergency kits.
- The warnings follow an exceptionally hot, dry summer that hardens soil and raises flash-flood risk, and meteorologists say the low-pressure push plus warm humid air could signal a stormier autumn ahead.