**Met Office Issues Thunderstorm Alert for North Wales Amidst Ongoing Heatwave**
Wales faces an abrupt shift in the weather this weekend as the Met Office has announced a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms, interrupting what has been an extensive spell of warmth and bright sunshine. Despite recent soaring temperatures, experts warn that the heat is to give way to intense and potentially hazardous storms, particularly in the north of the country.
The alert, which is scheduled to take effect from Saturday afternoon (21 June) and last into the early hours of Sunday, targets Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham. The Met Office cautioned that, although much of Wales will remain dry, certain areas should brace for rapidly developing thunderstorms, with the risk of disruptive weather emerging through the evening and overnight hours.
According to meteorologists, the most severe storms are expected to travel northeast before moving out to the North Sea. These unsettled conditions could bring frequent lightning, powerful gusts of wind, and sizeable hailstones, on top of fierce downpours in locations affected by the storm cells.
The combined threats of intense rainfall and sudden storm activity mean residents and travellers are urged to prepare for the possibility of surface water flooding and poor driving conditions. “Whilst many places will likely remain dry and unaffected, scattered thunderstorms may develop during Saturday afternoon, lasting through the evening hours. The most intense thunderstorms could produce frequent lightning, large hail and gusty winds, along with some heavy downpours for a time. This may lead to some surface water impacts in places,” a Met Office spokesperson advised.
The warning comes after Wales experienced its warmest day of the year to date, with mercury climbing to 30°C in locations such as Trawsgoed, Ceredigion and Cardiff on Thursday. This marked the peak of the heatwave, but forecasters suggest this latest warning signals the beginning of less settled conditions and a gradual drop in temperatures over the coming days.
Local authorities have emphasised the dangers that severe thunderstorms can pose, especially during periods following extreme heat. Sudden changes in the weather can catch many off-guard, increasing risks on the roads and raising the possibility of power interruptions. The Met Office also acknowledged the small but tangible risk that buildings might suffer damage owing to lightning strikes, hail, strong gusts or fast-paced flooding.
Saturday’s forecast highlights “very warm and humid” conditions throughout the day, with several areas likely to experience sunny intervals before the arrival of the showers and possible thunderstorms, particularly in the north. While localised torrential rain and large hail could occur, many places are expected to stay dry, with temperatures reaching up to 26°C before the fresh and breezier spell of weather is set to take hold from Sunday onwards.
For those concerned about the ongoing situation, the Met Office recommends staying updated with the latest forecasts and heeding official advice, especially if planning to travel. Flood-prone areas and busy transport routes could be most affected during short bursts of heavy rainfall.
As ever, significant weather events such as these underscore the unpredictability of the UK’s climate, especially when rapid transitions occur between heatwaves and cooler, stormier conditions. Authorities remind the public to remain vigilant and prioritise safety, particularly during journeys or outdoor activities over the weekend.
Residents are encouraged to follow developments through channels such as social media and the Met Office website, where up-to-date information and safety guidance will be provided as the situation evolves. As Wales transitions from heatwave to unsettled skies, preparation and caution remain key.