Scotland hit with thunderstorm and flood warnings as England basks in heatwave
Scotland has been majorly lagging behind the rest of the UK in the heatwave stakes, but it seems we are now bearing the brunt of the intense warmth in the form of slow-moving but heavy showers and thunderstorms.
The Met Office has slapped parts of Scotland with a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms today, Wednesday, July 2. The alert comes into effect at 11am today and is due to end at 6pm.
The warning zone covers south east Scotland, rising from the border to as far north as Dunfermline and Kirkcaldy in Fife, with Edinburgh also included.
The conditions have sparked fears of flooding and travel chaos, with 20mm of rain expected in some parts in less than an hour.
On top of this, there have been five flood alerts issued by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) - all in the east of the country.
These alerts stretch from the Aberdeenshire coast on the border with Moray, down to the Borders, encompassing Angus, Fife, and the Lothians.
Four food alerts that were in place this morning - for Moray, Central Scotland, Tayside, and West Central Scotland - are no longer in force.
The Met Office's warning reads: "Heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop across parts of southeast Scotland and northeast England on Wednesday, clearing east into the North Sea later in the afternoon.
"Whilst some places may see relatively small amounts of rainfall, a few locations could see 15-20 mm of rain in an hour or less leading to some impacts from surface water flooding.
"Where several showers move over the same area, there is a chance of 20-30 mm falling in two to three hours."
For those on the move today, whether that's to work or for a social outing, trains might be delayed. Some short term losses of power on other services is also likely, so it is best to plan ahead and remain vigilant.
For those heading somewhere by car or bus, "there is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water, leading to longer journey times," the national forecaster warned.
Homes and businesses could also suffer from flooding and/or lightning strikes, resulting in damage to buildings. And even as the showers start clearing to the east later on, we still won't be out of the woods.
Strong winds may develop on the western flank, sparking gusts of around 40mph for a period of time.
Wondering what you should do to prepare and keep safe in the ever-changing, tumultuous weather? If you are at risk of flash flooding, you should consider preparing a food plan and an emergency flood kit.
Ahead of possible power cuts, gather 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.
If you are venturing out, check road conditions or bus and train timetables, and amend your travel plans if necessary.
Regions and local authorities affected by the Met Office yellow weather warning:
Central, Tayside & Fife
Falkirk
Fife
SW Scotland, Lothian Borders
East Lothian
Edinburgh
Midlothian Council
Scottish Borders
West Lothian
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