MOTORISTS are being warned to take extra care during heavy, thundery showers expected this weekend.

The Met Office has issued an amber warning for rain, starting on Friday night and continuing through Saturday, warning of torrential downpours and a risk of localised flooding.

According to the forecast, showers will begin in the south of the country overnight on Friday and move northward throughout Saturday.

The showers are expected to be localised and short, but torrential and thundery, and are possible across much of England.

It is possible that some of the showers will be heavy enough to cause temporary, localised flooding.

The Highways Agency, which operates and maintains motorways and major A roads in England, is working closely with the Met Office to monitor weather conditions and keep journeys safe and reliable.

Simon Sheldon-Wilson, director of traffic management at the Highways Agency, said: “With schools across the country now broken up for summer, lots of people will be taking to the roads this weekend.

"While this weather should not prevent people from making a journey, it’s important that drivers are aware of the forecast and drive appropriately.

“Rain and spray can reduce visibility and when the road is wet it can take up to twice as long to stop so it makes sense to slow down when it's raining and leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front.

"It’s also a good idea to check the latest conditions before setting out on a journey – it only takes a minute and can save you a lot of time if there is an incident on your route.”