The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms and heavy rain, affecting parts of Somerset, including North Somerset and Bristol, later this week. The warning is in effect from 6am until 10pm on Thursday, 27 August.
Forecasters have cautioned that the region could experience significant rainfall, with accumulations of 20-30 mm expected within three hours and up to 50 mm over a 12-hour period in some areas. There is also a small chance that certain locations, particularly those on east-facing high ground, may receive over 50 mm in three hours and more than 75 mm over 12 hours. Alongside heavy rain, hazards include lightning strikes and hailstones measuring between one to two centimetres.
The Met Office has highlighted the possibility of rapid flooding affecting homes and businesses, with the potential for damage caused by floodwaters, lightning, hail, and strong winds. Deep and fast-flowing floodwaters may pose a danger to life in some areas.
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Transport disruptions are expected, including delays and cancellations, as well as difficult driving conditions. Power outages could occur, and some communities might become isolated due to flooded roads.
This weather warning follows a similar thunderstorm warning for Bristol and Gloucestershire on Wednesday, which is also scheduled from 6am to 10pm. The heavy rainfall comes at a time when the South West is experiencing drought conditions, with hosepipe bans already in place across the region.