A MAJOR mopping up operation has been launched across Hampshire after "unprecedented" flooding caused by last night's storm.

Members of Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service were stretched to the limit as they dealt with a string of calls relating to flooding and damage to property.

PHOTOS: Amazing photographs from last night's thunderstorm

A fire service spokeswoman said: “There was mainly flash flooding in the Southampton area, where the drains could not cope. So it is often a case of just waiting for them to be able to take the water again.

“In many cases we sent an officer out to give advice.”

In the early hours Hants Fire Control tweeted: "It has been an unprecedented night of flooding in Southampton and the surrounding areas due to the storm, which has also brought multiple lightning strikes and resulting fires."

On Bridge Road, Itchen, firefighters were called to a fully-submerged car from which the occupants had managed to escape.

At Queens Terrace in the city centre water was pumped off a balcony.

In Hawkers Close, Totton, a lightning strike damaged a chimney, resulting in parts of the stack falling into the garden.

Flooding also occurred on several roads in the Southampton area, including Thomas Lewis Way.