Emergency crews are pumping water out of homes on the outskirts of Canterbury, as the flooding continues.

Firefighters were called to Patrixbourne and Bridge this morning, after water rushed into properties in the villages.

Police say as many as 50 homes are at risk of damage from flooding in the area.

Patrixbourne Road has been closed "until further notice" due to the flooding, and drivers are urged to use other routes.

The Steiner School in Petham has also been closed due to the washout.

A message on the school's website says: "Due to the pumping station being blocked and toilet facilities being unavailable, the school is closed today."

Canterbury City Council handed out 9,000 sandbags in preparation for this weekend's deluge.

Today, the authority warned people to avoid Valley Road between Barham and Kingston, which is currently under water.

The coach park in Canterbury is also closed due to flooding, and rubbish collection services have been disrupted.

Elsewhere in the city, Merton Lane has been shut near the junction with the B2068 because of flooding.

Across Kent, more than a dozen flood warnings are in force as police urge people to stay away from rising waters.

A force spokesman said: "Kent Police is working closely with its partner agencies to ensure that the response to those affected by flooding and the weather is co-ordinated and effective.

"Those heading out over the next few days are urged to stay alert to any potential dangers particularly in and around flood water.

"The advice is to stay away from flooded rivers, avoid driving through water if possible and brakes should be checked regularly."

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for heavy rain, while forecasters say winds of up to 80mph could batter the county.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service bosses are in urgent meetings with Environment Agency experts this morning.

The city council urges people affected by flooding to call 01227 862000.