Thunderstorms and hail may impact various regions of the UK today, even though temperatures soared to 26C earlier this week.
According to the latest forecast from the Met Office, conditions are expected to be damp in northeast England and southern Scotland initially, with the potential for thunder and hail in southern England and Wales. The day is anticipated to feel humid for many individuals.
As the day progresses, showers are predicted to diminish overnight, leading to mainly dry conditions. Cooler weather is on the horizon for the northern regions, where frost may develop in rural areas.
Ventusky’s weather mapping service highlights the likelihood of thunderstorms across a significant portion of southern England and Wales around 7pm this evening, with indications pointing to possible occurrences in 22 counties/principal areas.
The Met Office has issued safety advice for dealing with thunderstorms. Precautionary measures include unplugging non-essential appliances before the storm hits to prevent potential power surges. Additionally, individuals are advised to steer clear of underground or low-lying spaces such as car parks, basements, or underpasses due to the risk of rapid flooding.
During a thunderstorm, it is recommended to avoid using landline phones unless in emergencies, as telephone lines can conduct electricity. Engaging in activities like golf, fishing, or boating on a lake is also discouraged during such weather conditions.
For those driving in a thunderstorm, it is best to roll up car windows and remain inside the vehicle for safety. Most cars with metal roofs and frames can act as conductive Faraday cages, redirecting current around passengers and to the ground.
Soft-top convertibles are considered to be at higher risk during thunderstorms and could potentially catch fire if struck by lightning, as warned by the Met Office. It is crucial to be mindful that current can travel through various parts of modern cars, including GPS and radio systems, as well as metal interior components like handles, foot pedals, and steering wheels.