The Met Office has warned tunderstorms are expected to hit much of south Essex this morning as a weather warning has been issued.

The experts have issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms that will affect much of southern Essex.

A warning - which covers much of Southend, Basildon and Castle Point - is in place until 12pm today and residents have been warned to expect journey delays and flooding in some parts.

However, the current forecast shows - while rain is expected to hit parts of the area - no thunderstorms are predicted.

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Here is the hour-by-hour forecast for south Essex amid the warning:

8am - Cloudy with a 10 per cent of rain

9am - Cloudy with a 10 per cent of rain

10am - Cloudy with a 10 per cent of rain

11am - 40 per cent chance of light rain

12pm - 80 per cent chance of heavy rain

While it will remain cloudy with rainfall forecast this morning, temperatures are expected to reach 19C by 12pm.

What can I expect while the warning is in place?

The Met Office has warned:

  • There is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water, leading to longer journey times by car and bus
  • There is a chance of flooding of a few homes and businesses, leading to some damage to buildings or structures
  • A chance of some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes, as well as short term loss of power
  • Delays to train services are possible