After one of the driest springs on record, the Met Office has issued a Yellow Weather Warning for Thunderstorms which will affect the whole of Berkshire and many other parts of England.
At the current time, the weather warning will be in place from 9pm today (Friday, 18 July) until 6pm tomorrow (Saturday, 19 July).
Please be aware that weather warnings may change quickly, so stay up-to-date with the weather forecast in your area.
During thunderstorms, sudden flooding could occur, especially after a period of dry conditions. Flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions, damage to homes and businesses, and possibly cause power cuts.
So, to help residents prepare for the heavy rain and thunderstorms, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) is providing useful advice to help you stay safe.
During thunderstorms:
- Give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown around by side winds, so keep your speed down and keep a safe distance.
- Give yourself more time to react while driving. Reduced visibility and wet roads will increase your stopping distance.
- Do not attempt to drive through flood water. Just 30cm of moving flood water is enough to make your car float and potentially move you into deeper water where you could become stranded.
- Do not move or ignore road closure signs. These signs arethere for your safety, so please do not ignore them.
- Do not let children play in flood water. It could be deeper than it seems.
- Ensure good ventilation if using portable indoor heating appliances to dry out indoor spaces. Do not use petrol or diesel generators or other similar fuel-driven equipment indoors: the exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide which can kill.
- Do not turn on gas or electrics if they are wet. Only turn them on when they have been checked by a qualified technician.
- Ensure people and pets are upstairs if your building begins to flood.
- Stay inside during a flood and call 999 if you are in danger – for example, if it is affecting electrics.
For further weather guidance related to heavy rain, please visit our Wet Weather Advice page.