Thunderstorms forecast for large part of UK as Met Office issues weather warning

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms, which could lead to flooding and disruption in parts of the UK.

Much of England and Wales enjoyed sunshine and temperatures of up to 25C on Sunday, but downpours are forecast for Monday.

The weather warning covers the period from midday on Monday to 10pm.

It covers almost all of Wales and an area of England, stretching from the South West across to Kent, and up to Stoke-on-Trent.

Find out the forecast for your area

Sky News weather presenter Jo Wheeler said: “Some areas may miss the showers, but where they occur, there’s likely to be hail, thunder, lightning, gusty winds and a temporary temperature drop.”

Almost 50mm of rain could fall in some places in just a couple of hours, she added.

While a dry spring means rain is needed in many areas, “the heavy nature of these showers [means] there is the potential for minor localised issues and flooding,” Met Office meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey said.

The Met Office said the rain could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

There is also a chance of power cuts and flooding, it added. People who live in areas at risk of flash flooding should consider preparing a flood plan and emergency kit, the Met Office warned.

The high pressure will rebuild from Tuesday, and dry conditions and sunshine will return across the country, Mr Vautrey added.

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The UK has this month seen its warmest start to May on record as temperatures soared to 29.3C on 1 May – beating the previous record by almost 2C.

The 1 May was also the warmest day of the year so far.