Thunderstorm warning for Somerset issued by Met Office

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms in Somerset. The warning, issued this lunchtime, lasts until 8pm this evening.

Travellers throughout the region have been cautioned by the Exeter-based forecasters about likely disruption and possible flooding. Short-term power loss is also a potential issue in some spots.

The weather warning applies to Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Bristol, plus sections of Dorset and Wiltshire. The Met Office said: "Scattered thunderstorms are likely to develop across the area, bringing some localised disruption."

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Here's the breakdown of the Met Office 5-day weather prediction for the South West:.

Met Office 5-day forecast for the South West

Today: Morning fog patches will soon clear to leave bright day with plenty of sunny spells. However, scattered showers will form by the afternoon, some heavy with hail and thunder, especially in the east. A warm and humid day. Maximum temperature 18 °C.

Tonight: Showers fading through the evening. Dry overnight with clear spells. Some fog patches forming as winds will be light. Chilly in the countryside. Minimum temperature 6 °C.

Friday: Any overnight fog and low cloud should clear to leave another day of sunny spells and showers. Some of the showers will be heavy, perhaps with hail and thunder. Warm. Maximum temperature 20 °C.

Outlook for Saturday to Monday: Overnight cloud will give way to sunny spells each day. Staying mostly dry, but the risk of a few showers in places. Feeling warm in the sunshine.