A MET Office weather warning for rain has been issued and thunder has been forecast for Southampton.

The warning comes into place at 11am on Thursday and runs until 9pm on Friday.

The forecaster has warned residents to be aware of poor conditions.

It says: "Flooding of homes and businesses could happen quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.

"Fast flowing or deep floodwater is possible, causing a danger to life.

"Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures and where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services.

"Power cuts might occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost.

"Some communities might become cut off if roads flood."

Thunder and lightning are forecast between 2pm and 6pm on and off on Thursday afternoon, while weather is expected to be more benign on Friday.

Lightning was forecast over the weekend and initially for Tuesday evening, but failed to materialise.