Homes in London and the south east are at risk of flooding when thunderstorms strike on Wednesday, the Met Office has warned.
The forecaster has issued an amber warning for the region and a less severe yellow alert for the rest of the south, midlands and Anglia, from 11am to 10pm.
“Flooding of homes and businesses is likely and could happen quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds,” a statement read.
“Fast flowing or deep floodwater is likely, causing danger to life.”
The heatwave experienced in July and August has hardened the ground and created a greater risk of flooding, should rain heavily fall.
“Spray and sudden flooding could probably lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures,” the statement reads.
They have also warned:
- Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, delays and some cancellations to train and bus services are likely
- Spray and sudden flooding probably leading to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
⚠️⚠️ Amber weather warning issued ⚠️⚠️
— Met Office (@metoffice) August 17, 2022
Thunderstorms across parts of southeast England
Wednesday 1100 – 2200
Latest info 👉 https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs pic.twitter.com/Xg5JSF5j6H
- Some communities likely to become cut off if roads flood
- Power cuts likely to occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost
There is a high chance of heavy rain throughout the afternoon and evening in London - with the peak of the thunderstorm likely to be felt between 6pm and 7pm.
The Met Office has issued advice on how to stay safe during a thunderstorm, which includes staying away from power cables, driving slowly and keeping car windows closed.
There are no weather warnings for the rest of the week.
Despite the wet weather Thames Water has confirmed a hosepipe ban will kick in next week.
The Environment Agency has said it will take weeks' worth of rain to replenish water sources and end the drought.
In a statement on its website, Thames Water said: "We have more teams reducing leakage than ever before, working 24/7 to find and fix more than 1,100 leaks every week. The recent heatwaves mean that demand for water is also at record levels.
"We've been working around the clock to supply everyone, and customers have been brilliant at saving water where they can. But, with low rainfall forecast for the coming months, we now need to take the next step in our drought plan. Everything we do now will help protect supplies next summer and help the environment.
"We know these restrictions impact your day-to-day activities around your home and beyond, and we're grateful for your support."
