THUNDERSTORMS and torrential downpours could cause disruption in Dorset with potential for flooding, the Met Office has warned.

A yellow alert for thunderstorms has been issued for Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and the rest of Dorset.

As much as 40mm to 60mm of rain could fall in two to three hours with the chance of “frequent” lightning and gusty winds. There is also potential for hail.

The warning will be in force from 10am on Thursday until around midnight.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “Thunderstorms are likely to break out in some areas, particularly during the afternoon and early evening.

“While most places will probably miss them, where thunderstorms do occur there is a chance that in a few places up to 40 mm of rain could fall in an hour or so and 40 to 60 mm could fall in two or three hours.

"These torrential downpours may be accompanied by frequent lightning, whilst gusty winds and hail may also affect a few places.

“The exact location of the thunderstorms will be hard to pinpoint, so the warning area will be kept under review and updated if necessary.”

In terms of what to expect, the Met Office says:

  • 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
  • There is a small chance of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life
  • 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
  • There is a small chance that some communities become cut off by flooded roads

Earlier this month, a huge thunderstorm occurred during the Jubilee Bank Holiday Weekend which also resulted in flash flooding in some areas.