London, UK - The United Kingdom is once again facing a period of unsettled weather, with the Met Office issuing multiple warnings for heavy rain and isolated thunderstorms across various parts of the country. This comes as the UK enters the school summer holidays, potentially disrupting travel plans and outdoor activities for many.
As of Sunday, July 20, 2025, bands of rain are steadily spreading northwards, with the heaviest downpours currently affecting the Southwest of England and Scotland. While some areas may see brighter spells by the afternoon, the risk of heavy, thundery showers remains.
Met Office Warnings in Effect:
Yellow Warnings for Rain: These are primarily in place for the Southwest of England and across Scotland. The Met Office anticipates that many areas within these zones could see 20-30 mm of rain, with some localized spots potentially receiving a more significant 50-75 mm in just a few hours.
Yellow Warnings for Thunderstorms: These extend across much of England and parts of Southern Scotland, including the West Midlands and Wales. The primary hazard from these is heavy downpours, but lightning strikes, hail, and gusty winds are also possible. Rainfall amounts in these areas could vary significantly, with some locations seeing 20-40 mm within a couple of hours.
Potential Impacts and Advice
The Met Office has outlined several potential impacts from this heavy rainfall:
Travel Disruption: Motorists should be prepared for increased stopping distances, reduced visibility, and the risk of aquaplaning. There is a likelihood of spray and flooding on roads, which could lead to difficult driving conditions and even some road closures. Delays to bus and train services are also possible.
Flooding: There is a risk of localized flooding to homes and businesses, especially in areas where heavy downpours persist. Communities could even become temporarily cut off by flooded roads.
Power Cuts: Isolated power cuts are a possibility, and other services, such as mobile phone networks, may be affected.
Environmental Concerns: The recent heavy rainfall has already led to concerns about the environment, with reports of water companies discharging from sewage overflows, particularly in the South-East of England.
Looking Ahead:
The unsettled conditions are forecast to continue into early next week. While showers or longer spells of rain will remain possible across the country, the focus of the heaviest wet weather is expected to shift towards the northwest. Towards the latter half of the week, there's a possibility of more prolonged drier and sunnier interludes, particularly across southern and eastern areas.
The Met Office advises the public to stay updated with the latest forecasts and warnings through their website and app. With the school holidays now underway, individuals are urged to factor in the potential for disrupted travel and adjust their plans accordingly.