A yellow weather warning for thunderstorms has been issued for Cumbria.
The Met Office is warning that thunderstorms may cause some disruption and damage to infrastructure tomorrow, Monday August 12.
The warning has been issued from 2am to 1pm.
Forecasters said: “Thunderstorms are expected to develop over western parts of the UK and move north east during the second half of Sunday night becoming organised into Monday morning.
“Although not all parts of the warning area are expected to see them, an area of increasingly organised thunderstorms is likely to produce a combination of frequent lightning, heavy rain, hail and short periods of strong winds.
“Some torrential downpours are likely, with 20mm to 40mm in places, and a potential for 40mm to 60mm of rain to fall in one to two hours very locally, with hail up to 2cm in diameter.
“Thunderstorms are expected clear towards the north east by Monday afternoon.”
What to expect
- Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
- There is a small chance that some communities become temporarily cut off by flooded roads
- Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services
- There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost
- There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds
What should you do?
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.
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.
