A thunderstorm is making its way across towns in East Lancashire this afternoon.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather alert for storms and has warned that some homes and businesses could be damaged from lightning strikes.

The weather service also warned of possible flooding and spray affecting drivers on the roads.

The yellow warning, in place until 9pm on Monday night, said that flooding of buildings was also likely.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “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.

“Delays to train services are also possible and some short-term loss of power and other services is likely.”

Thunderstorms can occur at any time of the year, according to the weather service, but it is during the summer months when thunderstorms are most likely to produce large hail, gusty winds and torrential downpours.