Met Office issues yellow thunderstorm warning for parts of Merseyside

Andrew Nuttall
·2-min read
Lightning strikes over Formby, Liverpool
Lightning strikes over Formby, Liverpool -Credit:Liverpool ECHO


The Met Office has issued a weather warning for Merseyside.

Parts of Liverpool and Wirral could see heavy downpours and the chance of thunderstorms this Bank Holiday, May 6. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning, which will be in place from 1pm to 9pm.

The warning spans across parts of south Liverpool - including Speke, Halewood and Huyton. A full map showing the areas likely to be impacted has been shared by the weather service.

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The warning stated: "Thunderstorms and heavy downpours are likely to break out in some places this afternoon and evening. Although not all places will catch these storms and downpours, where they do occur 20 to 40 mm rain may fall in some places in an hour or two."

This is what the Met Office said to expect:

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • There is a small chance of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life

Thunderstorms have been predicted across parts of Liverpool and Wirral
Thunderstorms have been predicted across parts of Liverpool and Wirral -Credit:Met Office

This is what the Met Office said you should do to prepare:

  • Consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.

  • 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.

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