Met Office yellow warning of thunderstorms for Cornwall

It says while many places will remain dry, thunderstorms and heavy showers could cause some disruption on Friday in a few places including Cornwall north of Truro.

The storms are expected to reach just north of Truro (Image: Met Office)

They warn there probably could be some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes Driving conditions may be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus, delays to train services are possible, some short term loss of power and other services is likely.

A spokesperson for the Met Office said: “A few thundery showers may be present across southern and southeast England early on Friday, but from the middle of the day they are expected to develop more widely within the warning area.

“Whilst some places will remain dry, where thundery showers do occur, they will bring frequent lightning, gusty winds, potentially some large hail, as well as brief spells of heavy rain.

“15-25 mm of rain fall may fall within an hour, with a very small chance of 30-40 mm falling in three hours; the latter most likely across southwest England. Showers will tend to ease and fade during Friday evening.”

"A later updated warning said: Whilst there is some uncertainty in the details , scattered showers and thunderstorms are likely to develop and spread northwestwards at times later on Friday night and through Saturday.

"While much of the time it will be dry, and not all places will see these, where they do occur 20-40 mm could fall in less than an hour, with a small chance of isolated accumulations of 50-70 mm over the course of a few hours."

In addition, hail and frequent lightning may accompany the most intense storms, especially during Saturday afternoon and evening in parts of the Midlands, southern England and east Wales.

Residents are advised to consider if their location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.

Other Met Office advice includes: • Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

• “People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.

• “If you find yourself outside and hear thunder, protect yourself by finding a safe enclosed shelter (such as a car). Do not shelter under or near trees, or other structures which may be struck by lightning. If you are on an elevated area move to lower ground.

• Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.