LIVE as thunderstorm hits Greater Manchester amid yellow weather warning and flood alerts

A thunderstorm has started to hit Greater Manchester this afternoon, just hours before thousands will descend on the city to celebrate the Manchester City bus parade.

Forecasters have warned of possible flooding across the region amid a yellow thunderstorm warning, which is in place until 8pm tonight.

The Met Office issued the yellow weather alert, set to bring with it heavy rainfall and thunder that 'may cause flooding and disruption in places'.

READ MORE Flood warnings in place as yellow thunderstorm alert hits Greater Manchester with heavy showers expected

Forecasters have predicted that where there are cases of flooding or lightning, there is also chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services, with roads also expected to become flooded.

The yellow weather alert covers all of northern England and parts of Scotland and Wales. The latest warning comes on a busy day for the region as more than 30,000 descended on the city centre for The Great Manchester Run is underway and for the Manchester City parade.

This is a live blog. Weather updates to follow below.

Take your brollies and coats out with you if you're heading to the parade this evening.

It's a bit wet out there...

Forecasters have warned of possible flooding across Greater Manchester amid a yellow thunderstorm warning. The Met Office issued the yellow weather alert, bringing heavy rainfall to the region, for this afternoon and evening.

The Met Office says that 'slow-moving heavy showers and thunderstorms may cause flooding and disruption in places'.

People are being urged to take care on the roads and prepare for possible disruption to travel and power.

The warning continues: "There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be