HEAVY rain and lightning may hit parts of Dorset as a yellow weather warning comes into force.

The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms which covers areas in Dorset including Dorchester, Weymouth, Portland and Bridport. The warning began at 9.30am this morning and will remain in place until 9pm tonight.

Residents are warned there is a chance of heavy rain and lightning bringing disruption.

A spokesman for the weather forecaster said: "There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes or perhaps hail.

"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.

"Whilst many areas will see little rainfall there is the chance of some heavy and thundery downpours developing, particularly late in the afternoon. Where these occur 30-50 mm of rain could fall in less than three hours though only a few spots would likely see these totals. Lightning may also be a hazard during the day."