Parts of the north west could be lashed by thunderstorms on Wednesday morning with heavy rain and strong winds forecast.
A storm will strike much of the country from the early hours and is expected to last until midday.
The Met office has issued a yellow thunderstorm warning for a large part of England and the whole of Wales.
Forecasters have warned there is a 'small chance' of flooding and said 'very gusty winds' could cause disruption.
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The warning says: "A brief period of heavy rain, thunderstorms and very gusty winds may cause some disruption on Wednesday morning.
"There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.
"Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.
"Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services.
"There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost.
"There is a small chance of damage to trees by strong and gusty winds."
In Manchester rain is forecast from 10am to 5pm on Wednesday, with wind speeds expected to peak at around 29mph at 1pm.
Sunny spells and isolated showers are forecast on Thursday and Friday as temperatures turn colder.
Saturday is 'largely settled' but rain and strong winds could develop in the west later on.
