The North East has been warned to prepare for extreme weather as the Met Office issues an 11-hour weather warning for thunderstorms across the whole region. 

The yellow warning for thunderstorms will begin at 2am tomorrow (Monday, August 12) and is expected to remain in place until 1pm the same day.

Frequent lightning, heavy rain or hail and high winds could hit the region during the 12 hour period, which could see disruption across Darlington, Durham, Stockton, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool and wider parts of the North East.

Monday morning could see thunderstorms early on but should clear later in the morning. The rest of the day is expected to stay warm and humid with sunny spells. 

Cloud could build into the afternoon bringing further isolated showers, some of which could be thundery. Maximum temperatures of 26C.

(Image: Met Office)

What to expect from a thunderstorm

  • Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
  • There is a small chance that some communities become temporarily cut off by flooded roads
  • Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services
  • There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost
  • There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds

Outlook for later in the week

Fresher Tuesday, with sunny spells, ahead of a weakening rain band spreading east later. Changeable Wednesday and Thursday, with brighter periods, but also spells of rain. Temperatures near normal.