A THUNDERSTORM warning is in force for Bradford and surrounding areas.

The warning, released by the Met Office, covers the whole of West Yorkshire until 10pm today.

A Met Office spokesperson said: "Showers and thunderstorms are expected to become more widespread this afternoon and last into the evening.

"Although not everywhere will see a thunderstorm, where they do occur, they will tend to be slow moving, with lightning, hail and heavy rain.

"The heaviest showers and thunderstorms could produce as much as 20mm of rain in less than an hour with one or two places seeing 30 to 40 mm in two to three hours."

What to expect, according to the Met Office

  • 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 is possible, leading to some damage to buildings or structures

  • There will probably be some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes

  • Delays to train services are possible

  • Some short-term loss of power and other services is likely