The Met Office has issued new yellow weather warnings for 39 areas on Wednesday as thunderstorms could sweep the UK. According to the forecaster, parts of the UK will experience thunderstorms this afternoon and evening, causing some disruption in places.

The swift in the weather conditions come as the country goes through extreme weather conditions with temperature levels soaring to 34C on Monday. On Monday, the UK recorded its all-time highest May temperature as part of London reached 34.8C. “This heat would be exceptional in the UK even in mid-summer, let alone in May”, the Met Office said.

The warning comes into place at 3pm today and will remain active untill 11.59pm tonight. Around 39 areas in the country are likely to be impacted by the yellow warning, as per the Met Office.

It said: “After another hot day, thunderstorms are expected to develop across parts of Wales as well as some western and southwestern parts of England during this afternoon and through the evening. While many places will miss the worst conditions, where thunderstorms do occur they bring the potential for torrential downpours of rain, frequent lightning, large hail and strong, gusty winds.”

According to the Met Office, there is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus.

It further warned that the thunderstorms could lead to delays to train services. The National Weather Agency added: “Probably some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes. Some short term loss of power and other services is likely. Some flooding of a few homes and businesses possible, leading to some damage to buildings or structures.”