Met Office issues yellow weather warning for thunderstorms covering New Forest and Christchurch

HEAVY rain is set to batter the New Forest and Christchurch later this evening with residents warned to expect flooding and travel disruption.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms across the region from 8pm tonight (Wednesday) until 8am tomorrow.

People are warned to expect spray and “sudden flooding” that could lead to difficult driving conditions and road closures.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost.

“Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services.

“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.”

Between 20mm and 40mm of rain is expected to fall, with up to 50mm possible in some areas, over two to three hours.