DOWNPOURS - initially expected to miss Bolton and Bury - now appear to be heading towards the area. 

According to The Met Office, there could be thunder and rain between 4pm and 8pm.

Thunder is most likely at 7pm, when forecasters say there is a 70% chance.

Cornwall has been hit by flash floods in the past 12 hours by a weather system currently working its way north east across the UK.

There is a yellow weather warning of rain in place until 11.55pm today, for Bolton, Bury and the surrounding areas.

Of course, there’s still time for all that to change and it’s worth keeping up with the latest forecast via our live weather forecasting page here.

The forecast says: "Further, possibly severe, thunderstorms may break out again this afternoon and evening, probably focused over parts of northeast Wales, central and northern England."

It adds: "Although some places will miss the thunderstorms, there is a chance of localised sudden flooding of homes, businesses and roads. Frequent lightning and large hail may be additional hazards, the latter bringing potential for disruption to power."