Thunderstorms warning in place for Hartlepool

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning about thunderstorms from 11am to 10pm.

It says: "Monday morning's showers will become more widespread and often heavy and thundery by Monday afternoon.

Some locations will see heavy downpours, with 20 to 30mm of rain in an hour. Lightning, hail and strong gusts may also prove disruptive.

"Many areas may miss the downpours and stay largely dry, however. The showers will ease by late evening.

"There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings.

"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 slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost."

Drivers have been urged to take extra care in the wet weather.

Durham police Tweeted: "Heavy rainfall is forecast across our region, please slow down, drive to the conditions and be aware that in wet weather stopping distances can double."