A weather warning for rain has been issued as experts warn of a chance of power cuts and flooding.

The Met Office yellow alert came into force for all of Kent from 6am and remains in place until 9am tomorrow.

It is thought that 40 to 60mm of rain could fall within six hours.

A Met Office spokesman said: “There is a slight chance of power cuts, flooding and loss of other services to some homes and businesses.

“Where flooding occurs, there is a slight chance of delays or cancellations to train and bus services, difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

“There is a small chance that some communities will become cut off by flooded roads and of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life.

“Whilst some areas will miss the worst, areas of heavy, showery rain are expected to become widespread across a swathe of England and Wales during Thursday evening and on into Friday morning.

“There is some uncertainty in the details, but some locations may see up 20-30 mm of rain in two to three hours and perhaps 40-60 mm in four to six hours.

“Lightning and strong, gusty winds may be additional hazards, especially in southwest coastal areas. Given the recent very wet weather, this will bring the potential for further flooding and transport disruption.”

People are advised to prepare for disruption and check rail, bus and road conditions before travelling.