Thunderstorm warning issued across parts of Northern Ireland

Lightning captured on camera in August 2024

A thunderstorm warning has been issued across eastern parts of Northern Ireland on Thursday.

The Met Office is warning of possible damage and disruption where the storms appear.

The alert lasts from midday on Thursday until 22:00 BST across counties Antrim, Armagh and Down.

Showers are expected to develop through the afternoon with some increasing in intensity, bringing a risk of flash flooding.

Most places can expect 10-20mm of rain where the showers appear, but the heaviest could bring up to 40mm of rain in an hour.

The Met Office has warned of a a small chance that some places could see over 50mm of rain on Thursday afternoon.

The organisation has said there is a slight chance of power cuts and flooding to homes and businesses.

Disruption to travel can also be expected where the showers hit, causing difficult driving conditions.