A Kent village has recorded the highest temperature in the UK today - while others are still experiencing severe thunderstorms and downpours.

The mercury in Frittenden, near Tunbridge Wells, hit 26.7C just after noon.

It's in stark contrast to the heavy flash thunderstorms that hit parts of the county this morning - and are still continuing this afternoon.

One KentOnline reader, Christian Ball, even photographed hailstones the size of a 50 pence piece in Wateringbury.

While the north of the county is bathed in sunshine, the east and parts of the south are experiencing loud thunder and heavy rain.

The Met Office says almost 5,000 lightning strikes have been recorded in parts of the south east.

This morning, the Southeastern rail network warned of flooding causing problems around Gillingham.

And in Mereworth, there were delays due to flooding on the A228 Malling Road.

Met Office pundits have put a weather warning for rain on the region, with very heavy, thundery downpours throughout the day.

But they're saying there should be sunny spells, with the mercury hitting 26C - giving us the warmest weather in the country.

The last of the showers should clear Kent this evening, giving us a fine, dry night.

Tomorrow could be a good chance to dust off the barbecue, with sunny spells and temperatures of up to 19C.

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