THE Met Office has warned that scattered thunderstorms could bring power cuts and travel disruption across the North-East.

The forecaster has issued a yellow warning for much of the UK, which will come into effect from 6pm on Tuesday and last until 9am on Wednesday.

A spokesman from the Met Office said: "Scattered thunderstorms are expected to affect parts of South-West and southern England this evening, moving north quickly across the UK overnight, clearing Scotland and eastern England by mid-morning on Wednesday.

"Although some places will miss the thunderstorms altogether, where they do occur there is the potential for frequent lightning, hail and gusty winds, as well as sudden downpours in a few places."

Homes and businesses are being warned of a slight chance that power cuts could occur, with a small chance of damage to property from lightning strikes, hail, or strong winds.

Motorists are being urged to take care on the roads, which may be affected by spray, standing water or hail. Drivers are being asked to leave extra time for their journeys.