Parts of Britain experienced heavy rainfall and localized flooding ahead of the upcoming Bank Holiday weekend. On Thursday, intense downpours caused flash floods in Birmingham, resulting in submerged streets and challenging conditions for motorists.

At the Reading Festival on Thursday, attendees were seen wearing plastic ponchos as intermittent rain fell throughout the day. The Met Office issued warnings of further downpours and thunderstorms across various regions, prompting concerns over travel and outdoor plans during the holiday period.

This unsettled weather follows a series of summer heatwaves that had previously led to drought conditions and the implementation of hosepipe bans in several areas. Meteorologists forecast that wet weather is likely to continue through Friday, the weekend, and into Monday, potentially disrupting events and travel plans across the country. Authorities have urged the public to monitor weather updates and exercise caution, particularly in flood-prone areas.