Edinburgh and Lothians warned of 'flooding and travel disruption' as thunderstorms move in

A yellow weather warning is currently in place for the Lothian area, with "thunderstorms and heavy downpours" expected.

The warning was issued by the Met Office at 1pm on Monday. Drivers were urged to check road conditions and amend travel plans.

Some areas could see rain of up to 40 mm fall within an hour or two. The warning is currently in place until 9pm on Monday.

READ MORE - Edinburgh bus passenger rushed to hospital after crash as driver flees the scene

READ MORE - Body found in search for missing Edinburgh man who vanished from the capital

Traffic Scotland said: "Thunderstorms and heavy downpours may cause flooding and travel disruption.

"Thunderstorms and heavy downpours are likely to break out in some places this afternoon and evening. Although not all places will catch these storms and downpours, where they do occur 20 to 40 mm rain may fall in some places in an hour or two.

Sign up for Edinburgh Live newsletters for more headlines straight to your inbox

"What should I do? Consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

"Consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items. If you find yourself outside and hear thunder, protect yourself by finding a safe enclosed shelter (such as a car). Do not shelter under or near trees, or other structures which may be struck by lightning. If you are on an elevated area move to lower ground. Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area."

Join Edinburgh Live's Whatsapp Community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.

The Met Office added: "Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures

"There is a small chance that some communities become cut off by flooded road. Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services."

You can keep up with Met Office updates here.