PARTS of Somerset are at risk of heavy showers and thunderstorms which could cause localised traffic disruption.

An official 12-hour weather warning has been issued by the Met Office, from 10am until 10pm today (Tuesday, October 8).

Bath, Bruton, Midsomer Norton, Frome and south Somerset are all in the firing line with around 40-50mm of rain expected to fall in the worst-hit areas.

Forecasters warn there is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and hail leading to longer journey times by car and bus.

Some flooding of a few homes and businesses are also likely, leading to some damage to buildings or structures, especially across the south east of the area where highest rainfall is most likely.

The Met Office also says people should be prepared for lightning strikes, short term loss of power, and delays to rail services.

The Met Office states on its website: “Showers and thunderstorms will spread from the south west, as well as developing over land, during the morning, lasting through the afternoon and well into the evening.

“While some areas will miss these, there may be 20-30 mm of rain within two-three hours, with a small chance that a few places could receive 40-50 mm over a longer period - especially across the south east of the area this evening.

“Hail and lightning will be additional hazards, with a risk of temporary hail accumulations in places. In addition, heavy showers and thunderstorms will be associated with strong and gusty winds in the south of the warning area at times with 40mph gusts possible.”