Stormy weather to continue across the UK as Premier League returns

Stormy weather across the United Kingdom that kicked off the beginning of the week will persist as the country welcomes back the return of its most popular sports league.

The same storm system that brought torrential rain that led to major flooding in parts of France late last week has been meandering near northern France and the U.K. since the past weekend.

This storm system unleashed feisty thunderstorms across parts of the U.K. on Monday and Tuesday. Downpours caused flooding in areas like Milnrow, England, and dazzling lightning strikes have been seen lighting up the gloomy sky.

There have also been sightings of funnel clouds.

As this storm system lingers over northwestern Europe through the end of the week, daily showers and thundery downpours will remain in the forecast.

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After widespread rain and drenching downpours hit Wales and England Wednesday night and Thursday, additional showers and thunderstorms can be expected on Friday over much of the U. K. Though not as persistent, this additional rain on Friday can continue to lead to the threat for flooding.

"This upcoming rain could be just heavy enough that localised flooding can be an issue," said AccuWeather Meteorologist Tyler Roys. "In areas that have already received heavy rain from thunderstorms, flooding can be achieved easier than normal."

The English Premier League resumed play on Wednesday evening after several months of postponements due to the coronavirus pandemic. More matches are planned for Friday and over the weekend, including a showdown between Tottenham and Manchester United in London on Friday.

However, this step in the direction of normalcy could be put on hold as any thundery showers in the area before the start of the match could lead to a lightning delay.

A lightning bolt was caught on camera on Tuesday near Etihad Stadium in Manchester, England.

Even if the matches stay thunderstorm-free this week, showery spells can still lead to a slippery pitch.

"Looking ahead toward the weekend, a stronger storm will approach. Saturday may end up fairly dry through the day before some rain and wind from the storm moves in overnight into Sunday, stated AccuWeather Meteorologist Tony Zartman.

This storm is forecast to bring unsettled conditions to northern Britain into the beginning of next week. Southeast England may be able to enjoy a few largely dry days.

All of this rain is coming after a very dry month of May. For some it was the second driest May on record in Wales and southern England.

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