Thunderstorm warning for Preston and South Ribble

Past flooding in the Preston area Pic: Stephen Melling

A yellow warning has been issued for four days of severe thunderstorms across the UK.

The Met Office warning covers Monday to Thursday (10 to 13 August), but there is “significant uncertainty” about exactly where and when the thunderstorms will hit.

According to the Met Office, there is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.

Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services. Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost.

The Met Office also warns of a small chance of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life.