Heavy showers, thunderstorms, and hail are expected to impact six areas on Wednesday, potentially leading to power outages and flash flooding. The Met Office has issued a new yellow weather warning for thunderstorms, cautioning about possible damage to buildings from strong winds, floodwater, lightning strikes, and hail.

The warning will be in effect from 10 am to 9 pm, covering parts of northern Scotland. The forecast predicts slow-moving showers and thunderstorms with the potential to cause 20-30mm of rain in 1-2 hours and up to 50mm in some areas over 3-6 hours, possibly resulting in local flash flooding and transport disruptions.

Apart from flooding and building damage, the Met Office has highlighted the likelihood of challenging driving conditions, road closures, travel delays, and cancellations of train and bus services. There is a slight risk of power cuts and disruptions to services for homes and businesses.

Residents are advised to prepare for the adverse conditions by securing outdoor objects and collecting essential items like torches and mobile phone power packs. Similar weather conditions are affecting Northern Ireland, with a thunderstorm warning covering the entire country until 9 pm, potentially causing travel disruptions, outdoor event interruptions, flooding, and power cuts.

In England and Wales, firefighters are combating wildfires due to high temperatures in the late 20s without rainfall. Wales and half of England are experiencing drought conditions.