UK experiences 400 lightning strikes during heavy rainfall

On Saturday, the UK experienced severe weather with hundreds of lightning strikes and heavy rain. Over 400 lightning strikes were reported, along with hail and strong winds. This weather led to some flooding in various areas. The National Highways reported that parts of the M18 in Yorkshire were closed, and some areas of the M40 near Warwick remained shut down on Sunday due to the conditions. Ellie Glaisyer, a meteorologist from the Met Office, noted that thunderstorms were seen in London, Buckinghamshire, and eastern parts of the Midlands. Rainfall amounts reached about 10 to 15 millimeters in about 20 minutes to an hour. This stormy weather comes after the UK had its warmest spring equinox day since 1972 on Thursday, with temperatures reaching 21C in some regions. Glaisyer explained that warm air rising from heated ground contributed to the thunderstorms. While temperatures of around 18C in March are becoming more common, Glaisyer mentioned that this trend is linked to climate change. The Environment Agency has issued flood alerts for 22 areas, including north Hampshire and Hertfordshire.