Sydneysiders faced severe thunderstorms on Monday, with heavy rain and hailstones causing power outages for thousands. The thunderstorms swept through New South Wales, bringing over 20mm of rain within 30 minutes and more than 20,000 lightning strikes reported throughout the day. A severe thunderstorm warning remains in place for the central ranges and central west regions.
In the UK, forecasts predict a chilly spell with widespread frost and ice expected to engulf the country by October 23. A mass of icy air is set to sweep across the north-east coast, with temperatures dropping sharply in central and eastern England by October 25. The Met Office warns of unsettled conditions with heavy rainfall, particularly in the west, before a potential return to drier weather later in the month.
As the UK prepares for freezing temperatures, the northern regions, including parts of Scotland, could experience temperatures as low as -1C. This shift in weather patterns highlights the increasing unpredictability of climate conditions affecting both Australia and the UK.