HEAVY rain and storm conditions have prompted a yellow weather warning for Blackburn with Darwen and across Lancashire.

Met Office forecasters have issued the alert for a broad swathe of England and Wales, from Carlisle down to Southampton.

Severe downpours, including thunder and lightning, have already hit parts of East Lancashire early today.

A Met Office spokesman said: "Although some places will stay dry, heavy rain may cause some localised flooding and travel disruption."

Residents are being advised to expect, in the worst case scenario, some incidents of flooding and potential disruption to public transport.

Motorists are also being urged to take extra care because of the extra spray created and reduced visibility, especially on routes such as the M65, M66 and M6.