FIRE crews were called to a town centre building believed to have been struck by lightning this afternoon - as severe weather warnings were predicted for Suffolk.

FIRE crews were called to a town centre building believed to have been struck by lightning this afternoon - as severe weather warnings were predicted for Suffolk.

Two fire engines were called to the three-storey office block in Ipswich's Lower Brook Street at about 3.45pm. There had been reports of a power surge which is believed to have been caused by a lightning strike.

It follows severe weather warnings by the Met Office for the East of England which has predicted heavy rain. It some areas between 20mm and 40mm of rain is expected to fall in the space of three hours.