Heavy rain and thunderstorms forecast as yellow weather warning issued for Devon

The Met Office has warned of possible disruption across Devon and the South West, with torrential rain, thunderstorms and strong winds expected on Thursday 12 June.

A yellow weather warning has been issued by the Met Office for parts of South West England, including Devon, as heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to move northwards through Thursday morning.

The warning is in place from 12am until 1pm on Thursday 12 June. 

The alert, in place for 12 June, warns of potential travel disruption and localised flooding, with a band of rain sweeping across the region before clearing later in the day.

“There is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus,” the Met Office said. “Delays to train services are possible.”

Torrential downpours and gusty winds

Rainfall could reach 10–20mm in an hour in some places, and up to 30–40mm in less than three hours. Thunderstorms are likely to accompany the heaviest downpours, with occasional hail also possible.

Winds will strengthen at times, with gusts of 40–50mph expected around hills and coastal areas, increasing the chance of disruption.

Some short-term loss of power or other services is also likely, according to the Met Office.

Warning covers wide area

The yellow warning covers a large area of South West England, including:

• Devon

• Cornwall

• Somerset

• Dorset

• Bristol

• Torbay

• Plymouth

• Bath and North East Somerset

• South Gloucestershire

• North Somerset

Drivers are being advised to take extra care and allow more time for journeys.

The weather is expected to improve later in the day once the band of rain moves north.