Risk of thunderstorms and heavy showers in New Forest and Christschurch, warns Met Office

THUNDERSTORMS and heavy showers are forecast across the south of England today (Monday), including the New Forest and Christchurch.

The Met Office said the conditions would be felt between midday and 9pm along the south coast from Plymouth to the east of Brighton, and north up to a line from Bath to Norwich.

The yellow alert issued this morning (Monday) said: "While many places will stay dry, heavy showers and thunderstorms may cause flooding and travel disruption in a few places."

It warned of heavy, slow-moving, thundery downpours with up to 20-40mm over two or three hours in a few places, before the showers die out during this evening.

It added: "There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from flood water, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.

"Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

"There is a small chance that some communities become cut off by flooded roads.

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

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