Storm clouds expected over the Docks Pic: Ian Lambert

A yellow weather warning has been issued for Preston today.

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Outbreaks of showery rain may turn torrential and thundery this afternoon. Most places will miss the worst but there is also a risk of large hail and flash flooding which could cause disruption to travel.

The Met Office chief forecaster said: “A very warm and humid air mass is in place across much of the UK, with conditions marginal for thunderstorm development this afternoon as temperatures rise.

“Northern England and southeast Scotland are currently judged the most likely area to see scattered thundery downpours but even here many places will have no more than light rain.

“However, where storms do form, there is a lot of moisture and energy available, with the risk of more than 30 mm of rain in around an hour, large hail and frequent lightning.”

The warning is in place from 2pm until 11pm today.