The Met Office has issued a warning of heavy rain for the West Midlands. It said that between one and two inches (30 to 50mm) could fall on Monday, much of it in a period of just six hours or fewer. The region-wide amber warning highlights a risk of flooding and travel disruption.

Parts of England could be battered by more than a month’s worth of rain on Monday, the Met Office has warned. The autumn equinox on Sunday coincided with weather warnings for heavy downpours. A yellow alert is in place throughout Monday, covering parts of Wales, much of the south of England, the Midlands and into northwest England and Yorkshire.

Forecasters are warning of potential flooding, difficult driving conditions and delays on public transport - and the chance of outbreaks of lightning.