A yellow thunderstorm warning has been issued for the North East by the Met Office, as more rain is expected to hit the region over the next 24 hours. 

The weather agency has put in place the measure from midday until 8pm on Wednesday (July 10), which covers Darlington, Durham, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Northumberland, Redcar and Cleveland, Stockton-on-Tees.

Rainfall of 10-20mm is possible in an hour or so, with some places potentially seeing 30mm in a few hours, the forecaster added.

Motorists are likely to experience delays to their journeys because of flooded roads and spray, the forecaster warned.

Some homes and businesses may also be at risk of flooding alongside a small chance of damage from lightning strikes.

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In its forecast for Wednesday, the Met Office said: "A murky start for many, with showery outbreaks continuing through the day, these becoming heavy and thundery at times. Perhaps brightening up a little as the day goes on, but remaining mostly cloudy. Feeling humid. Maximum temperature 18 °C."

A look at the rest of the week:

Tonight: Remaining cloudy overnight, with heavy showers easing, but spells of mostly light rain developing. Perhaps breezy on northern coasts by dawn. Minimum temperature 10 °C.

Thursday: Outbreaks of mostly light rain gradually easing for most, although potentially lingering near coasts, where it will be breezy. Brighter spells likely developing later, especially in the west. Maximum temperature 17 °C.

Outlook for Friday to Sunday: Sunny spells and scattered showers on Friday and Sunday, but likely cloudier with rain on Saturday. Feeling cool.

What should people expect?

  • There is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus
  • Some flooding of a few homes and businesses possible, leading to some damage to buildings or structures
  • Delays to train services are possible
  • Perhaps some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes