Essex weather: Warning for thunderstorms extended to Saturday

The Met Office has extended its yellow weather warning for storms further into the weekend.

Covering much of England, including Essex, it is now set to last from about 6pm on Wednesday right through to 9am on Saturday.

Here is what the Met Office says to expect:

• 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

• There is a small chance of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life

• Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services

• 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 roads

• There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost

Temperatures reached the high 20s in parts of Essex this weekend with the start of the week also being bright and sunny.

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But the Met Office is predicting the warm temperatures will come to an end late on Wednesday with thunderstorms continuing into the start of this weekend.

A spokesman said: "Another spell of thundery rain is expected to push north across England and east Wales through Friday morning, persisting for much of the day, before clearing early on Saturday.

"There is some uncertainty in storm coverage, particularly western extent, but where they do develop torrential rain, intense thunderstorms, hail and frequent lightning are all possible.

"Rainfall totals of 20-40 mm, perhaps 60 mm in a few areas, are possible in 12 hours.

"With the most intense storms, 30-40 mm could fall in an hour or two.

"The storms should clear into the North Sea during Saturday morning."

For more information or updates, visit www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/uk-warnings.