Heavy downpours and thunderstorms are expected to sweep across the West Midlands from Friday evening to Saturday, prompting a yellow weather warning from the Met Office. Forecasters warn of possible flash flooding, power outages, and transport disruption across the region.
The weather alert will cover a broad area including Birmingham, Black Country, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire. The warning is set to remain in place from 9pm on Friday 18 July until 6pm on Saturday 19 July, with intense rainfall and frequent lightning likely.
Risk of Dangerous Flooding and Transport Disruption
The Met Office warning highlights a risk of “locally torrential” rainfall, with 20–30mm expected to fall in under an hour in some areas, and isolated accumulations of up to 90mm possible within three hours.
Such volumes of rain in short periods could result in fast-flowing or deep floodwater, posing a potential danger to life, according to the official advisory.
“Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures,” the warning notes. “Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services. Power cuts might occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost.”
Residents are urged to remain alert for rapidly changing conditions, particularly overnight and into Saturday morning. Flooding of homes and businesses could happen “quickly,” and structural damage is possible from floodwater, hail, or lightning strikes. The Met Office also warns that some communities could become cut off if roads become impassable.
Weather to Remain Unsettled Through the Weekend
The West Midlands weather forecast indicates a continuation of humid and unstable conditions leading into the weekend.
On Thursday 17 July, early rain and drizzle are expected to give way to brighter spells by the afternoon, accompanied by a chance of thundery showers. Temperatures are forecast to peak at 26°C, while overnight conditions will remain warm and muggy, with a low of 16°C.
Friday will begin with cloud cover, gradually clearing to allow for sunny spells, though isolated showers remain possible.
Saturday brings the highest potential for severe thunderstorms, particularly in the morning and early afternoon. While southern areas may see clearance by early afternoon, new thunderstorms may develop across the region by evening.
According to the Met Office, the outlook from 19 to 21 July remains unsettled, with further blustery and heavy showers expected. Risks of hail and thunder persist, though temperatures may stay warm in any brighter periods. Persistent rain could suppress daytime highs.
