Met Office experts predict storms set to batter London could cause a 'danger to life'

Met Office weather experts have said that thunderstorms in the capital are set to possibly cause a "danger to life". Predictions also suggest that the adverse conditions could delays to train services, dangerous driving conditions and road closures and flooding of homes and businesses 'cutting communities off'.

The yellow warning covers this evening and tomorrow morning (Friday, August 18 and Saturday, August 19). Londoners have been told to prepare for potentially hazardous, rain, lightning strikes and hail between 8pm until 5am in the city, as well as areas further north in East Anglia and nearer the south coast.

A spokesperson for the weather service said: "There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes or hail. There is a small chance of fast-flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life.

READ MORE: Full list of all planned London Underground, rail and bus weekend changes for August 19 and 20

Roads 'could be closed and bus services disrupted' (Image: Jac Depczyk)

"Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services. Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures

"There is a small chance that some communities become temporarily cut off by flooded roads. There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost."

Residents have been advised to keep a close eye on weather updates and travel disruptions, and to plan any necessary journeys. In addition, those whose property may be at risk from flooding have been urged to prepare a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.

Further advice on the Met Office's website reads: "It's never too late to take action and prepare for flooding. Follow these 6 simple steps to protect your home or business.

1. Check the flood advice in your area to know when and where flooding will happen
2. Charge mobile phone devices
3. Park your car outside the flood zone
4. Prepare a flood kit to help you cope in the event of flooding to your home and business
5. Store valuables up high, including electrical devices, important documents and furniture
6. Turn off gas water and electricity supplies

"If you are trapped in a building by floodwater, follow these simple instructions to keep you and your family safe:

• Go to the highest level in the building you are in
• Do not go into attic spaces to avoid being trapped by rising water
• Only go to a roof if necessary
• Call 999 and wait for help"

Experts also describe what to do when driving. Advice reads: "It is safer not to drive in thunderstorms but if you must drive you can do this more safely by:

• Slowing down
• Using main roads
• Using dipped headlights
• Giving yourself more time to react on slippery surfaces
• Keeping a bigger gap between vehicles"

The BBC too is predicting stormy weather in London but at slightly different times. The broadcaster's weather page suggests adverse conditions will hit the capital at 9pm this evening and last until 1am on Saturday.

Throughout, temperatures will remain at 20 or 21 degrees celsius, it adds.

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