The Met Office has issued a new yellow weather warning for thunderstorms covering London, the East of England, and South East England, in effect until 8am on Saturday, June 27. The alert, released at 2:05am, warns of frequent lightning strikes and torrential rain that could disrupt travel and cause damage.
Details of the warning
According to the Met Office, impacted regions can expect to see frequent lightning strikes and torrential rain. The statement added that some damage to buildings and structures from lightning strikes is likely, along with potential delays to train services. Short-term loss of power and other services is also likely, and driving conditions may be affected by spray, standing water, and hail. There is a chance of some flooding of homes and businesses, leading to damage.
Forecast specifics
A Met Office forecast said: "Further thunderstorms are expected to affect southeast England and parts of East Anglia through Saturday morning. Whilst many places will see little rainfall, a few places may see 15-20 mm in an hour or less. Frequent lightning and perhaps hail and gusty winds in places will accompany these thunderstorms, particularly across Kent and East Sussex."
Impact on East Sussex
The warning comes as two houses in East Sussex were set alight in the early hours of Saturday morning by lightning strikes, with emergency crews working at the scene. East Sussex Fire and Rescue said in a statement: "We are attending two house fires, reported after lightning. One is in Selmeston Road, Eastbourne and the second in Long Avenue, Bexhill. No reports of injuries. Joint Fire Control have received multiple 999 calls. Please avoid the area."
Affected regions
The full list of local regions affected includes: in the East of England – Essex, Norfolk, Southend-on-Sea, Suffolk, Thurrock; in London and South East England – Brighton and Hove, East Sussex, Kent, Medway.
