Households in several areas in England are being urged to ‘unplug appliances’ and keep two items to hand as thunder and lightning strike several areas.
The Met Office has forecast that thunder and lightning storms could zap various parts of England, Scotland and Wales, with the north of England particularly affected.
In its latest thunderstorm advice, the Met Office says Brits should keep an emergency kit on hand ready for the time storms arrive in their area.
In some parts of the UK, thunder and lightning has already arrived, while others will see storms later on tonight as the recent warm weather crashes to an end with thunder and lightning.
In its forecast, the Met Office warned of thunder as it said: “Areas of heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue to affect parts of the UK. The extent of these thunderstorms is uncertain and, whilst many places will miss them, some places may see 30 to 40 mm of rain fall in less than an hour and perhaps over 60-80 mm in one or two places. Lightning strikes will be additional hazards.
“The greatest chance of impacts is across eastern Scotland this afternoon (before reducing this evening), as well as parts of Wales and the West Midlands, where the risk continues into the first part of Monday night.”
The Met Office has urged everyone to unplug appliances during the storm because power surges could cause problems.
It said: “Lightning can cause power surges, unplug any non-essential appliances if not already using a surge protector.”
The Met Office also urged people to avoid using a landline during the storms.
It added: “Seek shelter if possible. When you hear thunder you are already within range of where the next ground flash may occur, lightning can strike as far as 10 miles away from the centre of a storm.”
“Telephone lines can conduct electricity so try to avoid using the landline, unless in an emergency.
“If outside avoid water and find a low-lying open place that is a safe distance from trees, poles or metal objects.
“If you find yourself in an exposed location it may be advisable to squat close to the ground, with hands on knees and with head tucked between them.
“Try to touch as little of the ground with your body as possible, do not lie down on the ground.
“If you feel your hair stand on end, drop to the above position immediately.”
If you experience a power cut, you should not call your energy supplier but instead ring 105 to report it.