UK and Ireland issue thunderstorm warnings for August 30

The Met Office has issued widespread yellow thunderstorm warnings across the United Kingdom for Sunday, August 30, 2026, with alerts in effect from 11 a.m. until midnight. The warnings cover large parts of England, Wales, and Scotland, including the North East, North West, and South West regions. In Ireland, Met Éireann has a separate weather advisory for widespread rain and possible thunderstorms valid from 3 a.m. on Sunday until 3 a.m. on Monday.

The warnings indicate that heavy showers and thunderstorms will develop, bringing potential disruption to transport, infrastructure, and outdoor activities. The Met Office forecasts that where the heaviest showers occur, 10 to 15 millimeters of rain could fall in less than an hour, with 30 to 40 millimeters possible over several hours. The largest rainfall totals are most likely for parts of north and northwest England and southwest Scotland. Additional hazards include hail, frequent lightning, and wind gusts of 35 to 45 mph in southern parts of England and Wales.

Officials have warned of possible impacts including poor driving conditions due to spray, standing water, and hail, leading to longer journey times. Delays to train services...