A WEATHER warning has been issued for parts of Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset as forecasters warn of potential thunderstorms this evening (June 25).

The Met Office has issued the yellow notice, which comes into force from 6pm until midnight.

However, the notice said “many areas” in the south west would be “missing the worst but thunderstorms could bring disruption”.

A yellow warning means there is a “small chance that buildings and temporary structures could be damaged by the sudden arrival of strong winds”, while driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus.

There would “probably” be some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes, with short-term losses of power and other services possible.

People are encouraged to check if their property is at risk of flash flooding and to take necessary precautions.

“If you find yourself outside and hear thunder, protect yourself by finding a safe enclosed shelter (such as a car),” a Met Office spokesperson said.

“Do not shelter under or near trees, or other structures which may be struck by lightning. If you are on an elevated area move to lower ground.”

The warning comes as the south west swelters in the midst of a red “extreme heat” warning from the Met Office, which is in place until Friday (June 26), with temperatures rising to around 40C in some areas.

The Met Office forecaster said Thursday would be “another very hot day” before “scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to move towards southwest England during Thursday evening and night”.

“While many areas will miss them, thunderstorms may produce sudden, gusty winds with 50 to 60 mph possible,” they added.

“Frequent lightning, hail and heavy rain are additional hazards. Impacts are slightly more likely towards the south coast of Devon and Cornwall.”

A chunk of the county, including the Glastonbury area, was hit by a severe thunderstorm earlier this week, which caused serious surface water flooding in some areas.