Wales is set to be battered by thunderstorms and heavy rain over the next two days, with the Met Office issuing a series of severe weather warnings covering much of the country.
Yellow alerts for thunderstorms are in force across large swathes of Wales and parts of England on Wednesday and Thursday, with forecasters warning of lightning strikes, torrential downpours, and the risk of flooding.
The thunderstorm warning is active between 11am and 8pm on Wednesday, running alongside an earlier yellow rain warning in place until 2pm the same day. The rain alert covers 12 areas across south Wales, including Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Carmarthenshire, Blaenau Gwent, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Neath Port Talbot, Torfaen, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, and the Vale of Glamorgan.
On Thursday, the thunderstorm warning comes into effect from 2am until 5pm, extending the disruption into a second day.
In total, 21 Welsh counties fall under the Met Office thunderstorm alerts across the two days, including Pembrokeshire, Gwynedd, Conwy, Denbighshire, Ceredigion, Flintshire and Wrexham, alongside the southern regions already affected by the rain warning.
The Met Office has cautioned that the unsettled conditions could lead to flooding of homes and businesses, travel disruption, and even structural damage in the worst-affected areas.
A spokesperson for the forecaster said:
“Thunderstorms associated with scattered heavy showers may cause some impacts during Wednesday. There is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus. Probably some damage to a few buildings and structures from strong winds and/or lightning strikes; delays to train services are possible; some short-term loss of power and other services is likely, and there is a small chance that a few properties could become flooded.”
The Met Office added that hail, strong winds, and frequent lightning may develop during the most active storms, with surface water flooding possible in places hit by heavy downpours.
Residents are being urged to take precautions, including checking travel conditions before setting off, preparing for potential power cuts, and ensuring flood plans are in place if living in at-risk areas.
The spokesperson advised: “You should consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. 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 are also reminded to seek safe shelter if caught outdoors during thunderstorms, avoiding trees or tall structures which may be struck by lightning.
The Met Office is urging the public to stay alert to updates, as warnings may be extended or altered at short notice.
