Yellow warning of thunderstorm expected for Preston and Lancashire next week

The UK's national weather service has forecast that the storm is likely to break on Wednesday, with areas across the North West likely to be affected.

Apart from Wednesday being the day most likely day for conditions to hit their most extreme levels, the Office notes there is currently significant uncertainty in location and timing.

The Met Office states: "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.

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

"Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

"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 of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life."

"Where the storms occur, rainfall totals of 30-40 mm could fall in an hour, with some locations potentially receiving 60-80 mm in 3 hours, although these will be fairly isolated."