Met Office warns most of England to brace for heavy rain
Forecasters predict torrential rain, with up to 30mm falling in less than an hour in some southern areas (Yui Mok/PA Wire)
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for thunderstorms and heavy downpours across almost all of England, starting Friday and extending into Saturday.
Two distinct warnings are in place: a larger one from Friday evening until Saturday evening, and a smaller one for the North East and Yorkshire on Friday afternoon.
Forecasters predict torrential rain, with up to 30mm falling in less than an hour in some southern areas, alongside gusty winds, frequent lightning, and hail.
There is a risk of flash flooding, transport delays, power cuts, and potential damage to homes and businesses due to the adverse weather conditions.
The warnings come as Southern Water implements a hosepipe ban in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, following England's driest start to the year since 1976 and record-breaking June temperatures.