THE Met Office has issued a yellow warning for rain across Berkshire for Thursday and Friday.

The warning will be in place from 11am on Thursday and 9pm on Friday.

Thunderstoms are expected to affect the region throughout the day, with the likelihood of localised, flash flooding in some areas.

The Met Office warning said there is a small chance that homes and business could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued the following advice:

  • Do not drive through flood water – drivers are still taking enormous risks, with several vehicles having become completely submerged – drivers are endangering their lives.
     
  • Manholes may be dangerous – during the flooding it is difficult to see what is underneath the water but the rain can add pressure underneath the manholes.
     
  • Ensure good ventilation if using portable indoor heating appliances to dry out indoor spaces – do not use petrol or diesel generators or other similar fuel-driven equipment indoors: the exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide which can kill.
     
  • Do not turn on gas or electrics if they have got wet – only turn them on when they have been checked by a qualified technician.
     
  • Do not move or ignore road closures signs – they are there for your safety, so please do not ignore them.