UK weather: more than half a month’s rain to fall in south of England | UK weather

More than half a month’s rain could fall across the south of England on Friday, which could lead to homes and businesses being flooded, the Met Office has warned.

Between 30mm and 40mm of rain was expected to fall in some areas in six hours, the forecaster said. Typically in August, 63mm of rain falls across the south-east of England over the entire month.

Buildings and structures could be damaged by flooding and lightning strikes while homes could also lose power. Drivers in affected areas could be delayed by spray and standing water, and rail passengers could face longer journeys.

Holidaymakers beginning their summer getaway are advised to check weather forecasts for updates and prepare for longer journey times.

A yellow weather warning for thunderstorms has been issued by the Met Office for swaths of the south and the West Midlands between 6am and midday. The area affected covers London as well as the whole of the south-east and the Solent area stretching to Birmingham.

A yellow warning for wind is in place across coastal areas of north and mid-Wales between midnight and 6pm, and gusts could reach up to 97km/h (60mph).

The Met Office said trees could fall, potentially causing train delays and cancellations.

Marquees and tents used by campers in Snowdonia could also fall in the gusts, while caravans and lorries may struggle on some roads. Homes could also lose power for a short time, the forecaster said.

The Met Office meteorologist Rachel Ayers said showers would fall in the south-west of England and south Wales before growing in intensity as they move eastwards.

Heavy showers could hit areas unaffected by the weather warnings. Ayers said: “Given it is the summer holidays, people are more likely to be wanting to be outside and travelling for holidays.

“There is a chance we could see driving conditions affected, leading to longer journey times. Take the advice from our partners such as the RAC with regards to driving in heavy rain if you do make that journey.”

She said conditions should brighten up across most of the UK on Saturday with sunshine and showers likely amid “blustery” conditions.

Heavy rain on Saturday was likely to be confined to the north-east of Scotland, Ayers added.