A weather warning has been issued for Swindon and Wiltshire by the Met Office.

The Met Office is warning of thunderstorms with a yellow weather warning covering most of the south of England for today and tomorrow (May 1 and 2).

As well as thunder the government weather service is warning of heavy rain, flooding and travel disruptions.

The service warns: “Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

“Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services.

“There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost.

“There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.”

The warning is in place from 8pm today (May 1) to 8am tomorrow (May 2) across all of Swindon and Wiltshire.

Swindon Advertiser: Thunderstorms are expected across much of the south of England

The Met Office has issued advice for staying safe in thunder and lightning.

Before the thunderstorm

Lightning can cause power surges, unplug any non-essential appliances if not already using a surge protector.

Seek shelter if possible. When you hear thunder you are already within range of where the next ground flash may occur, lightning can strike as far as 10 miles away from the centre of a storm.

During the thunderstorm

Telephone lines can conduct electricity so try to avoid using the landline, unless in an emergency.

If outside avoid water and find a low-lying open place that is a safe distance from trees, poles or metal objects.

Avoid activities such as golf, rod fishing or boating on a lake.

Be aware of metal objects that can conduct or attract lightning, including golf clubs, golf buggies, fishing rods, umbrellas, motorbikes, bicycles, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, pushchairs, wire fencing and rails. If you are in a tent, try to stay away from the metal poles.

If you find yourself in an exposed location it may be advisable to squat close to the ground, with hands on knees and with head tucked between them. Try to touch as little of the ground with your body as possible, do not lie down on the ground.

If you feel your hair stand on end, drop to the above position immediately.

After the thunderstorm

Avoid downed power lines or broken cables.

If someone is struck by lightning, they often suffer severe burns. The strike also affects the heart, so check if they have a pulse.