Birmingham weather: Met Office issues yellow weather warning for thunderstorms

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for risks of thunderstorms today (May 10) across Birmingham and large parts of the West Midlands from 1pm to 8pm. As the weather sweeps across the region, heavy rain and lightning strikes are expected to cause delays for cars, buses and train services.

After a rather sunny morning, showers are set to develop which can turn into some rather heavy rain with thunder and lightning at times. In the evening, the skies are once again looking to clear up with only a few risks of local showers. 

Thursday will see a mixture of sunny and wet weather, with some risks of thunder and rain throughout the day. There is currently no weather warning in place for the rest of the week.

According to the Met Office, Birmingham can expect a good chance of driving conditions being affected by spray, standing water and/or hail with delays to traffic on both roads and rail. There is also likely to be some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes while the weather warning is in place.

It is recommended that you unplug any non-essential appliances before the thunderstorm to stop the risk of power surges, and to seek shelter if you’re outdoors. During the thunderstorm, avoid using landlines and avoid water and low-lying open spaces outside.

West Midlands weather forecast

Wednesday May 10:

Cloud soon breaking to give plenty of sunny spells and allowing showers to develop. These could be locally heavy and thundery at times. Breezier, but feeling pleasant in the best of any sunshine. Maximum temperature 16 °C.

Any showers soon easing with some late sunny spells. Mostly dry overnight with some clear spells developing, though the odd shower still possible, especially towards dawn. Winds turning lighter. Minimum temperature 7 °C.

Thursday May 11:

A mixture of sunny spells and showers. Showers could be heavy and slow moving, carrying the risk of thunder. Light winds and feeling pleasant in the best of any sunshine. Maximum temperature 17 °C.

Outlook for Friday to Sunday:

Sunny spells developing on Friday, with the odd shower possible. Mostly dry on Saturday with sunny intervals. Clouding over on Sunday, with rain arriving later. Feeling warm in the sunshine.

(Source: Met Office)