Heavy rain and possible thunderstorms have been forecast for parts of the UK, in a bad omen for weather this summer according to the legend of St Swithin’s Day.
The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for rain between 8am and 11.59pm on Monday ahead of forecast downpours of up to 40mm over the course of a few hours.
It spans Wales and parts of western England – including Cardiff, Bangor, Liverpool and Exeter.
According to traditional folklore, the weather experienced on St Swithin’s Day (July 15) will continue for the next 40 days – meaning parts of the country could be in for a wet rest of the summer if superstition holds true.
The proverb of St Swithin says: “St Swithin’s Day if thou dost rain, for forty days it will remain, St Swithin’s Day if thou be fair, for forty days will rain na mair.”
⚠️ Yellow weather warning issued ⚠️
Rain across Wales and parts of western England
Monday 0800 – 2359
Latest info ? https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs
Stay #WeatherAware⚠️ pic.twitter.com/uNgLkFGcSh
— Met Office (@metoffice) July 14, 2024
The Met Office warned “torrential downpours” are likely, with 15-20mm of rainfall forecast in less than an hour in some places – and 30-40mm within three hours in others.
This may be accompanied by lightning throughout the day, the forecaster added.
There is a small chance some homes could be flooded or see power cuts and fast flowing or deep floodwater may also cause a danger to life.
Spray and flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and road closures, the Met Office said.
There is also a chance some train and bus services will be delayed or cancelled in affected areas.
The heavy rain is expected to spread north across the affected area during the day.
