The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms impacting large parts of Somerset on Thursday, July 31. The alert is in effect from 10am to 9pm, warning residents to prepare for potentially severe weather conditions and widespread disruption.
The warning focuses on the eastern areas of Somerset, including Bath, Wells, Glastonbury, and Yeovil. Forecasters predict torrential rainfall, with some locations possibly receiving up to 60mm of rain within just two hours. Frequent lightning strikes and hail showers are also expected, increasing the risk of hazards.
Heavy rain may cause road flooding, leading to possible closures and delays or cancellations of train and bus services. Power outages could affect some homes, and other essential services may be interrupted. Additionally, properties are vulnerable to flooding as well as damage from lightning, hail, and strong winds.
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According to the forecast: “Storms will tend to become more confined to the south and east of the warning area later in the afternoon before dying out during the evening.”
Weather outlook:
Today: Early mist or fog will clear quickly, with a few morning showers easing by afternoon to reveal warm, sunny intervals. Maximum temperature will reach around 24°C.
Tonight: Cloud cover will increase from the west with showers spreading eastwards overnight, some potentially heavy. It will stay mild and more humid than the previous night, with minimum temperatures near 15°C.
Thursday: Warm and humid conditions will prevail as showery rain moves east, followed by sunny spells and heavy, possibly thundery showers particularly in eastern areas. Maximum temperature around 24°C.
Friday to Sunday: Showers will continue on Friday but decrease by Saturday with warm, sunny spells expected. Cloudier conditions return Sunday with patchy rain arriving in the far north later in the day.