THUNDERSTORMS are expected to hit parts of Somerset later this week.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning covering Somerset, Hampshire, Dorset and neighbouring counties.

The warning is for western Somerset, with Bridgwater, Taunton and Chard not included.

It says the storms may bring some disruption on Thursday (July 31) and that there is a “slight chance” of power cuts to homes and businesses.

There is also the risk of flooding.

The Met Office said: “There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.”

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The warning runs from 10am to 9pm.

The Met Office added: “Thunderstorms and heavy showers are expected to develop during Thursday morning and through the afternoon.

“These could produce torrential downpours in a few places with as much as 25-35 mm of rain falling within an hour and perhaps 60mm within two hours. Frequent lightning and hail will be additional hazards.

“Storms will tend to become more confined to the south and east of the warning area later in the afternoon before dying out during the evening.”