UK weather: Forecasters flag TORNADO risk amid Met Office weather warning

Forecasters have warned of a risk of tornadoes today amid a weather warning issued for severe gales.

Wind speeds of up to 70mph are feared throughout the day, and these are likely to cause "disruption to travel and interruptions to power," the Met Office says. Its yellow weather warning came into force at 8pm on Sunday and expires at 6pm today, during which time there is a risk of tornadoes, especially across southern England.

Nick Finnis, meteorologist at Netweather, has written on the website's blog: "There is risk of flash-flooding and a low risk of a tornado with this squally rain in the south, as highlighted in the Severe Thunderstorm Watch (STW) issued."

The forecaster's STW reads: "There is potential for organisation of convection, possibly some thunderstorm developing, forming into linear multi-cell convective clusters or even one or two transitory supercell structures capable of producing locally damaging wind gusts and one or two brief isolated tornadoes. Intense rainfall leading to flash-flooding will also be a hazard with this activity."

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The forecast comes with rain also expected throughout Monday, heaviest across the Midlands. More than 30mm of rain already fell on Sunday in Cardiff, south Wales.

While any tornadoes are not expected to be disruptive, Netweather has shared the update in the wake of the Met Office's weather warning because it states Brits must prepare for power cuts by gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.

The Met Office warning continues: "If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."

Winds are indeed expected to be strongest along the southern coast, especially across south Wales, Devon and Somerset. Temperatures are also feared to drop slightly too, particularly in these western parts.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Stephen Kocher said: "Strong west or southwesterly winds will arrive across coastal areas of southwest England and Wales during Sunday evening, spreading inland and eastwards during Monday morning. Gusts of 45-55 mph are expected widely in inland areas, while gusts of 60-70 mph are possible at times along exposed coasts and hills."

The outlook into next week continues the unsettled theme. On Tuesday, a ridge of high pressure will bring a short-lived spell of more settled conditions before another low pressure system is likely to affect the UK on Wednesday.