Met Office storm alert for New Forest and Christchurch is extended

A THUNDERSTORM warning for the New Forest and Christchurch has been extended.

The Met Office yellow alert for Thursday now covers the whole day, with a midday-to-midnight warning added for tomorrow (Wednesday).

Some flooding and disruption is possible tomorrow, and spray and sudden flooding could also hit driving conditions and shut roads.

Communities could be cut off by flooded roads, and there is the chance of power cuts.

Tomorrow’s alert also states there is a small chance of homes and businesses being flooded quickly.

Buildings could be damaged by floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “Whilst many places will stay dry, a few thunderstorms are likely to break out on Wednesday.

“These are possible at any time, but become more likely during the afternoon and evening.

“Where these occur, 20 to 30mm of rain is possible within an hour, and perhaps as much as 50mm in two hours; the latter more likely across southeast England during the evening.

“Lightning will be an additional hazard.”

For Thursday, people are warned fast flowing or deep floodwater is possible, posing a danger to life.

Spray and sudden flooding could again make driving conditions difficult and shut roads, and train and bus services could be delayed or cancelled in areas affected by flooding or lightning strikes.

Homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.

Power cuts might occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost.

The Met Office said: “Whilst there is some uncertainty, thunderstorms may affect southeast England during the early hours of Thursday.

“Where these occur, rain accumulations of 25-40mm are possible in one hour, with a small risk of over 60mm in 2-3 hours, and accompanied by frequent lightning at times.”

It continued: “Scattered heavy showers and thunderstorms are then expected to develop through Thursday afternoon and evening.

“These have the potential to produce 50mm or more in one to two hours, along with gusty winds, large hail, and the risk of surface water flooding.”