The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning signalling the likelihood of severe thunderstorms affecting a broad area of England and Wales, including Birmingham and much of the West Midlands. The alert is set to begin at 3am on Wednesday and continue until 10pm the same day, with a further warning starting from 6am on Thursday.
Residents across 59 local authorities should brace for intense rainfall, frequent lightning, and the potential for sudden flooding. The Met Office has highlighted risks to homes and businesses from floodwater, lightning strikes, and hail, which may cause structural damage.
Officials have cautioned that these conditions could lead to significant disruptions, including power cuts and delays or cancellations to train and bus services where flooding or lightning strikes occur. Households are advised to prepare emergency flood kits and take precautions against possible power outages.
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In terms of safety, the Met Office advises individuals caught outdoors during thunderstorms to seek enclosed shelters such as cars. People are warned to avoid sheltering under trees or near structures liable to attract lightning. Those on elevated terrain should move to lower ground to reduce risk.
Despite the incoming wet weather, temperatures in Birmingham are expected to remain warm, with highs reaching up to 26°C. The forecast predicts a cloudy start to Wednesday with heavy or thundery showers, followed by periods of brighter weather and scattered showers through the afternoon.