The Met Office has issued a yellow thunderstorm warning as stormy conditions are set to impact a large area of the UK. Heavy rain, hail, and lightning are expected to affect parts of the country on Sunday. The alert, which came into effect just after 8am, will remain in place until at least midday.

The warning encompasses areas including Gloucester, Bath, Salisbury, and Newport, affecting nearly 20 localities and thousands of residents. Forecasters have cautioned about challenging driving conditions and a slight risk of power cuts for homes and businesses. There is also a possibility of flooding, damage from water, lightning strikes, hail, or strong winds, as well as disruptions to train and bus services.

A band of heavy rain and thunderstorms is anticipated to move north across the affected regions. Some areas could experience rainfall amounts of 30-40mm, accompanied by frequent lightning and hail. Meteorologist Ellie Glaisyer commented, "It’s a very windy start for many of us out there this morning particularly across the west where we’ve seen some coastal gales. We’ll continue to see some very strong winds throughout much of Sunday."

Glaisyer added, "A bit of a brighter start across eastern areas this morning, with plenty of hazy sunshine on offer through the afternoon, but further west, a wetter picture is expected. Some outbreaks of heavy, showery rain will push their way northwards as we progress through the afternoon."

This weather warning comes just before a total lunar eclipse, known as a "blood moon," which is anticipated to be visible in parts of England and Wales on Sunday night. The moon will turn a deep, dark red as the Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow across the lunar surface. This phenomenon will be visible for the first time since 2022, with the eclipse expected to occur around 7.30pm, provided the skies are clear.