Five flood alerts have been issued across the county following a night of storms and weather warnings.

The Environment Agency says the county could be hit by floods from Penshurst to Ashford, Goudhurst and Hadlow as water levels settle this morning.

An alert is in force for the Upper River Stour with the warning saying flooding is possible for communities on the Great Stour from Charing Heath to the A2070 including Ashford, the East Stour, the Whitewater and Ruckinge Dykes and the Aylesford Stream.

The Upper River Medway is also at risk with flooding possible from Forest Row to Penshurst, including Ashurst.

Rivers Eden, Eden Brook and Kent Ditch from Blindley Heath to Penshurst including Edenbridge and Hever could cause flooding and another alert is in force for the River Teise area from Lamberhurst to Goudhurst.

The River Bourne could also be affected from Hadlow to East Peckham, including Golden Green and Little Mill.

The Environment Agency says: “River levels are rising as a result of overnight heavy rainfall.

“Flooding of roads and low-lying land is possible, property flooding is not expected at this time.

“Weather conditions are expected to improve later today, and no further flooding is expected.

“We are closely monitoring the situation. Take care and avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water and remain aware of your local situation.”

One lane has closed on the M20 as a result of flooding on the westbound carriageway in Ashford from Junction 10 to Junction 9.

It is not just Kent that is at risk, there are 79 alerts in total across England and 11 warnings.

It comes as a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms in the south of England ended at 3am.

The Met Office said showery rain would push into eastern parts of England today with sunny spells developing in the south.