Isle of Wight heavy rain and thunder weather warning July 31

As previously reported by the County Press, the Met Office has issued a thunderstorm alert for Thursday – which remains in place – but now includes Wednesday too.

From midday onwards and into Thursday, the national forecaster warned of ‘some isolated flooding’ and disruption from thunderstorms.

What to expect (according to the Met Office)

• Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.
• There is a small chance that some communities become cut off by flooded roads.
• There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost.
• There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.

Yellow weather warning covers the region (Image: Met Office)

Whilst many places will stay dry, the forecaster says, a few thunderstorms are likely to break out throughout the day and are possible at any time – but most likely during the afternoon and evening.

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Where these occur, 20 to 30mm of rain is possible within an hour and perhaps as much as 50mm in two hours, with lightning expected to be an additional hazard.

The Met Office is warning residents who live in a ‘flash flood area’ to consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.

Do not shelter under or near trees or other structures which may be struck by lightning. If you are in an elevated area, move to lower ground.