The Met Office has warned residents to brace themselves for possible thunderstorms this evening (October 7).

A yellow weather warning has been extended to cover Hertfordshire until 12am – with a “good chance” driving conditions will be affected by “spray, standing water and/or hail”, according to the forecaster.

The warning covers most of southern England, and although some places may miss the worst of it, “heavy showers and thunderstorms may cause some disruption, particularly to travel, later on Monday”.

Flooding of homes and businesses is possible, as are delays to train services and short term losses of power and other services.

Damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes, hail or gusty winds is also possible – although most likely closer to the coasts.

The Met Office said: “Areas of heavy showers and thunderstorms will move northwards across southern parts of England and Wales later Monday, clearing northwards overnight.

“Some places will see 20-30 mm of rain within 2-3 hours, with a small chance that a few places could receive 40 mm.

“Thunderstorms are most likely for south-facing coastal districts, and hail and some strong gusts of wind could accompany the heaviest showers and thunderstorms.”