ALERT: UK Met Office issues yellow weather warning for South West region this weekend

Heavy downpours and isolated thunderstorms could hit Devon and the South West this weekend, with the Met Office warning of possible flooding and disruption to travel and power supplies.

The yellow weather warning is in place from 12pm on Sunday 20 July until 3am on Monday 21 July.

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Up to 50mm of rain could fall in just a few hours, with some parts of the region, including areas of Devon, potentially seeing 75mm or more.

The Met Office has warned there is a small chance homes and businesses could be flooded, and some buildings may suffer damage.

Isolated power cuts and loss of other services are also possible, while spray and flooding on roads could cause difficult driving conditions and delays to bus and rail services.

In some places, floodwater could be deep and fast-flowing, with a small chance that some communities may become cut off by flooded roads.

People across Devon are being urged to prepare in advance by checking if their properties are at risk of flooding and putting together an emergency flood kit.

Motorists are advised to check road conditions and amend travel plans if needed.

The public is also encouraged to gather essentials like torches, batteries and phone power packs in case of power outages.

The weather alert comes with a reminder that warnings can change quickly.

The Met Office advises staying up to date with the latest forecast at metoffice.gov.uk.

The warning was issued at 10.55am on Friday 18 July.