THUNDERSTORMS could bring heavy rain to Dorset this evening, the Met Office has warned.

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

The warning has been issued from 4pm today (October 7) until midnight tonight.

Residents can expect flooding and short-term loss of power as a result of the storm.

There is also a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus.

Residents can also expect damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes, hail or gusty winds, this most likely close to coasts.

A spokesperson for the Met Office said: “Areas of heavy showers and thunderstorms will move northwards across southern parts of England and Wales later Monday, clearing northwards overnight.

“Some places will see 20-30 mm of rain within 2-3 hours, with a small chance that a few places could receive 40 mm.

“Thunderstorms are most likely for south-facing coastal districts, and hail and some strong gusts of wind could accompany the heaviest showers and thunderstorms.”