Met Office extends yellow weather warning as thunderstorms and more heavy rain on the way

Scottish Sun

21 hours ago

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SCOTLAND is set to endure even more weather misery as forecasters predict thunderstorms and torrential rain are on the way.
Most of the country are already braced for a deluge later today, but the predictions have worsened.
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Scotland will be under a thunderstorm warning
Credit: Getty
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People have been urged to prepare for lightning strikes
Credit: Reuters
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Heavy rain is also on the way
Credit: Alamy
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Up to 75mm of rain could fall
Credit: Alamy
The Met Office had issued a yellow weather warning, but this has now been extended to cover all of mainland Scotland.
A yellow weather warning is in place from 12 noon today until 12 noon tomorrow.
Up to 75mm of rain could batter Scotland in just a few hours.
The 24-hour warning period could see the some homes could be plunged into darkness by power cuts.
Roads across the country could also be flooded amid the heavy rainfall.
Trains, ferries and buses could also be thrown into chaos by the weather, with services being delayed and axed.
A Met Office spokesperson said: "Areas of heavy rain with isolated thunderstorms are expected to arrive from the south during Saturday afternoon, becoming persistent in places and leading to some large totals building up, particularly on southeast facing areas of high ground.
"Many places are likely to see 20-30 mm, but some locations could see 50-75 mm in just a few hours."
But as soon as one warning is over another is in place.
A yellow THUNDERSTORM alert is covering most of the Scotland and England on Monday.
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The warning will be in place from 11am until 9pm and cover the south, east and west.
Only the northeast and northern Highlands are not under the thunder alert.
They even warned fast flowing floodwater could pose a "danger to life."
Scots have been warned to expect even more heavy rain and potentially some hail stones and lightning strikes.
The Met Office added: "Scattered heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected during Monday, especially during the afternoon and early evening.
"While many will miss the worst conditions, a few places could see 30-50 mm of rain within a couple of hours.
What to do during a thunderstorm?
Before the thunderstorm Lightning can cause power surges, unplug any non-essential appliances if not already using a surge protector.
Seek shelter if possible. When you hear thunder you are already within range of where the next ground flash may occur, lightning can strike as far as 10 miles away from the centre of a storm.
During a thunderstorm Telephone lines can conduct electricity so try to avoid using the landline, unless in an emergency
If outside avoid water and find a low-lying open place that is a safe distance from trees, poles or metal objects
Avoid activities such as golf, rod fishing or boating on a lake
Be aware of metal objects that can conduct or attract lightning, including golf clubs, golf buggies, fishing rods, umbrellas, motorbikes, bicycles, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, pushchairs, wire fencing and rails. If you are in a tent, try to stay away from the metal poles
If you find yourself in an exposed location it may be advisable to squat close to the ground, with hands on knees and with head tucked between them. Try to touch as little of the ground with your body as possible, do not lie down on the ground
If you feel your hair stand on end, drop to the above position immediately
After the thunderstorm Avoid downed power lines or broken cables
If someone is struck by lightning, they often suffer severe burns. The strike also affects the heart, so check if they have a pulse.
"Heavy downpours of rain will be the primary hazard but lightning strikes are also likely along with the potential for hail."
They have also issued safety advice ahead of the storms for people to protect their homes and themselves if they get caught in the bad weather.
A message from the weather service added: "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.
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Some roads could be flooded (Archive image)
Credit: Andrew Barr
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A yellow rain warning is in place
Credit: Met Office
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It will be followed by a thunderstorm alert on Monday
Credit: Met Office
"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.
"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.
"Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area."