Thunderstorms and rain warning for Devon

A severe weather warning for heavy rain has been issued for Devon on Friday.

Forecasters say isolated severe thunderstorms are likely to develop on Friday, which will be succeeded by a band of more widespread heavy rain and occasional thunderstorms, affecting much of the region into the early hours of Saturday morning. 

The public should be aware that there is a chance of some very localised significant disruption, mainly from surface water flooding. Lightning and hail could also cause some impacts.

The Exeter-based agency’s chief forecaster said:  “An area of warm, very humid air is expected to move northwards across France into southern Britain later on Thursday and into Friday.

“Whilst isolated thunderstorms are possible from Thursday, these become more likely and potentially more severe by Friday afternoon, with the potential for 20-30mm falling within an hour or so, probably on a very localised basis.

“Indications are that a more organised band of heavy rain and thunderstorms will follow by Friday evening and overnight into Saturday, bringing 258-50mm of rain more widely, again with the potential for some very high short-period totals.

“Given the complexity of the developments leading up to this event, ideas on areas at greatest risk of heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms may well change, and this warning will be updated accordingly.”

The regional forecast is as follows:

Today:
Another dry and fairly warm day is expected with plenty of sunny spells and, overall, a little less cloud around than yesterday. Winds will be lighter too. Maximum Temperature 18°C.

Tonight:
The dry weather will continue overnight but cloud is likely to increase across most of the region. It shouldn't be as chilly as a result. Minimum Temperature 9°C.

Thursday:
Most places will stay dry with some sunny spells but isolated, heavy and possibly thundery showers may affect Cornwall and parts of Devon. Temperatures will be higher too. Maximum Temperature 22°C.

Outlook for Friday to Sunday:
Thunderstorms may become more widespread on Friday with heavy downpours in places, but these should clear northwards leaving the rest of the weekend mainly dry but feeling cooler.