RESIDENTS are being warned to take care this weekend, with the Met Office issuing a weather warning for thunderstorms.

The 'yellow' warning is in place across the county throughout Saturday, with forecasters also warning of heavy downpours.

It means there is the potential for flash flooding in places and even power cuts.

The latest forecast suggests there could be frequent showers throughout Essex tomorrow, starting early in the morning.

It will be mainly cloudy though there may be some sunny intervals during late afternoon and evening.

Basildon is likely to see some heavy showers on Saturday but could avoid the worst of the weather in Essex.

Here's what to expect over the coming hours: 

  • 8am - light rain (60 per cent chance). Temperatures of 17c
  • 9am - heavy rain arrives (60 per cent chance) with similar temperatures
  • 10am - heavy rain (60 per cent chance) with temperatures rising to 18c
  • 11am - light showers (40 per cent chance) with temperatures of 18c
  • 12pm - light showers (30 per cent chance) with temperatures climbing slightly to 19c
  • 1pm - light showers (30 per cent chance)
  • 2pm - light showers (30 per cent chance)
  • 3pm - dry but cloudy spells
  • 4pm - dry but cloudy spells
  • 5pm - skies are predicted to begin to brighten
  • 6pm - more sunny intervals expected
  • 7pm - some sunshine through the louds
  • 8pm - the sunniest weather is expected at 8pm, right before kick off of England Vs Ukraine

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The warning for thunder will remain in place across Essex, and most of England, until midnight on Saturday.

The Met Office says to expect:

  • There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes or hail
  • Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services
  • Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
  • There is a small chance that some communities become cut off by flooded roads
  • There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost

Some thunderstorms are predicted in Basildon on Sunday.

They could arrive at about 1pm.

For the latest forecast, click here.