SEVERE weather warnings have been issued across Hampshire as the county braces itself for a deluge of heavy and persistent rain for the rest of the week.

The Met Office has put in place yellow warnings throughout the county, warning residents to “be aware” that heavy rain is heading their way between now and Friday.

Up to 60mm of rain is expected to fall in 36 hours, accompanied by strong gusts of wind, before the rain starts to ease tomorrow lunchtime.

It is being caused by an active frontal system associated with an Atlantic depression which pushed in from the west yesterday afternoon.

But the umbrellas won't be away for long as another developing frontal system hits the south on Thursday afternoon bringing with is more persistent rain and strong winds, lasting throughout Friday.

Many places are predicted to see 20-30mm during the day on Friday, with as much as 50-70mm over higher ground.

Localised flooding is a possibility either from surface water or from some rivers.