MONSOON storms and flash flooding were predicted in Worcestershire today by Evening News weatherman Paul Damari.

"I'm expecting slow moving storms to move from south to north during the afternoon and evening," he said.

"There will be thunderstorms from lunchtime and possibly even hail in parts. We could see up to two inches of rain fall - it will be like a monsoon.

"People should prepare themselves to cope with flash floods. However, the rain will reduce the risk of fires, as Worcestershire has been experiencing tinder box conditions."

The change in the weather was because of fresh air "oozing" in from the Atlantic and encountering the muggy, Continental weather that had been lingering over the country in the past week, said Mr Damari.

"Saturday will feature a mixture of sunshine and showers, and Sunday will be fair and cool," he said.

But sun worshippers could expect the sweltering heat to return next week, he predicted.

Evening News weatherman Paul Damari is forecasting the searing heat to continue throughout July and August, broken by brief stormy conditions.