Britain is bracing for thunderstorms and possible flash flooding after sweltering through record-breaking May temperatures and consecutive “tropical nights”.
The Met Office has issued a yellow thunderstorm warning covering 42 areas of the UK, cautioning that isolated but intense storms could bring disruption between 3 pm and 10 pm on Tuesday.
The warning comes as forecasters predict temperatures could climb as high as 36C, potentially surpassing the record already set for the hottest May day ever recorded in Britain.
Large parts of the country endured exceptionally warm overnight conditions on Monday, with temperatures at Kenley Airfield in south London failing to drop below 21.3 °C. The Met Office confirmed it was the warmest May night on record, following another record-breaking overnight minimum the previous evening.
Forecasters warned that the combination of extreme heat and unstable atmospheric conditions could trigger sudden downpours, lightning strikes and hailstorms in some areas.
The Met Office said there was a risk of delays and cancellations to rail and bus services where flooding or lightning strikes occur. Motorists were also warned that spray and sudden flooding could lead to dangerous driving conditions and possible road closures.
A small number of homes and businesses could face rapid flooding, with potential damage from floodwater, hail, strong winds and lightning strikes.
The forecaster also warned of a slight possibility of power cuts and disruption to essential services in affected areas.
In guidance issued alongside the alert, the Met Office urged people caught outdoors during thunderstorms to seek enclosed shelter and avoid trees or elevated ground due to the risk of lightning.
Officials also advised households in flood-prone locations to consider preparing emergency flood kits and contingency plans.
The warning follows several days of unusually hot weather across Britain, with temperatures far above seasonal averages and conditions more commonly associated with southern Europe.
Health officials have previously warned that prolonged periods of extreme heat can place pressure on hospitals, transport infrastructure and vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly and those with existing medical conditions.
Meteorologists said the arrival of thunderstorms is unlikely to bring an immediate end to the humid conditions, with further spells of unsettled weather expected later in the week.
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