The exact times thunderstorms are set to hit Essex today as Met Office issues yellow weather warning

A yellow weather warning has been issued for thunderstorms in Essex today, with the worst expected to hit this afternoon (Sunday, June 18). The Met Office has advised that there could be several storms throughout the county and the rest of the UK.

The warning is in place from midday to midnight on Sunday. The Met Office says heavy thunderstorms could cause significant disruption to most of England and Wales, and parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland as well.

They have advised that spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures. There is also a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.

Read more: The latest weather news from Essex

The Met said where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services. There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost, and a small chance that some communities become cut off by flooded roads.

The storms are set to arrive first in the centre of Essex, with Chelmsford forecast to have the storms from 1pm onwards until around 3pm. Over in the west of the county in Harlow, thunder is expected from 2pm, with rain showers lasting into the evening.

In the south of the county in Southend, thunder and rain are expected between 3pm and 8pm. In Basildon, storms are expected from 1pm. Up in the north of the county in Colchester, there is no thunder or lightening forecast but rain is expected throughout the afternoon and evening.

The Met Office has issued the following advice for those travelling during storms:

• Even moderate rain can reduce your ability to see and be seen. A good rule of thumb is ‘if it’s time for your wipers, it’s time to slow down’.
• If heavy downpours are expected, avoid starting your journey until it clears.
• If you can, choose main roads, where you are less likely to be exposed to fallen branches and debris and flooding.
• Use dipped headlights if visibility is seriously reduced.
• Gusts of wind can unsettle vehicles – grip your steering wheel firmly with both hands. This is particularly important when planning to overtake.
• Keep an eye out for gaps between trees, buildings or bridges over a river or railway – these are some of the places you are more likely to be exposed to side winds. Ensure that you maintain enough room either side of your vehicle so you can account for it being blown sideways.
• Roads will be more slippery than usual in wet weather – be sure to give yourself more time to react when approaching a hazard. Increase your following gap to at least four seconds from the moving traffic in front.
• Keep your eyes peeled on the road at all times as spray from other vehicles can suddenly reduce your visibility. Remember it affects others too, so anticipate their actions and be prepared.

READ NEXT: