Met Office Issues Yellow Thunderstorm Warning for England and Wales

The Met Office has issued a yellow thunderstorm warning for parts of England and Wales on Saturday, August 29, 2026, bringing a risk of localized flooding and travel disruption to major events including the Reading and Leeds festivals. The warning, in effect from midday until 9 p.m., covers an area stretching from southwest England and Wales across the Midlands to the east of England.

Forecasters stated that within the warning zone, some places could see 15 to 25 millimeters of rain in an hour, with 30 millimeters possible over two to three hours. The downpours will be accompanied by hail and lightning. The Met Office said the flooding of a few homes and businesses is likely, train services could face delays, and car journeys may take longer. The Environment Agency has issued five flood alerts, mainly across the Midlands, indicating that flooding is possible in those areas.

The wet weather is expected to impact attendees at the Reading and Leeds festivals, along with other live music events across the region. The Met Office noted that low pressure pushing eastwards will bring rain to these gatherings, followed by heavy showers. The cricket at Lord's in London is also likely to...