THUNDERSTORMS could bring “frequent lightning” and heavy rain to Dorset tonight, the Met Office has warned.

A yellow weather warning has been issued for Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and the rest of the county.

As much as 20mm to 40mm of rainfall could fall widely with 50mm possible in some places.

The warning will be in force between 8pm today, Wednesday, May 1, and 8am on Thursday, May 2.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “Spells of heavy rain are expected this evening and overnight. In some places, most likely over northern and eastern parts of the warning area, there is a chance that rain will be accompanied by thunderstorms and frequent lightning.

“20 to 40 mm of rain is expected to fall quite widely with 50 mm possible in a few places. In some places much of this rain may fall over a 2 or 3 hour period.”

In terms of what to expect, the Met Office said spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

It says delays could occur to train and bus services.

There is also a “slight chance” power cuts could occur.

There is also a small chance homes and businesses could be flooded with damage to some buildings possible.

According to the Met Office forecast, heavy rain is expected from 6pm this evening until 7am tomorrow morning.