The Met Office has confirmed 42 areas of England are at risk of power cuts on Tuesday, May 26, as thunderstorms are forecast. A yellow weather warning for thunder has been issued across large swathes of England from 3pm this afternoon until 10pm this evening, with the adverse conditions expected to bring disruption. The Met Office has warned that “isolated intense thunderstorms”, following sunny weather, could bring spray and sudden flooding to some areas, with buildings at risk of damage from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail and strong winds.
There is also a chance the thunderstorms could lead to potential power cuts in some areas, as well as disruption to ther services, such as mobile phone coverage. Households within the yellow warning area are being urged to take steps to protect their property ahead of the storm, including securing objects and structures outside, such as sheds, fences, trampolines and bins, and preparing a flood plan and emergency flood kit.
Met Office advice also recommends that households prepare for potential power cuts by gathering torches, batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essentials in the event of outages.
The Met Office said: “If you find yourself outside and hear thunder, protect yourself by finding a safe enclosed shelter (such as a car). Do not shelter under or near trees, or other structures which may be struck by lightning. If you are on an elevated area move to lower ground.
“Consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Before gusty winds arrive, check to ensure moveable objects or temporary structures are well secured. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, gazebos, sheds, and fences.
“Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.
“People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.”
Listed are the 42 UK areas covered by a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms on Tuesday, May 26, which could result in power cuts:
West Midlands Conurbation