A yellow warning for thunderstorms is in force for the whole of Kent today.

The Met Office warns some areas across the county may experience loss of power and delays to rail services.

The weather warning came into effect at 5am and remains in place until midday today (Tuesday).

Forecasters say a week’s worth of rain could fall in just a few hours across parts of the UK as wet weather continues to batter the country.

“Sudden, torrential downpours will bring 15-20mm of rain in a short period of time,” the Met Office predicts.

“Showers will likely be accompanied by thunder and lightning. Gusts of winds to 40-50 mph are also likely, as is hail.”

The severe weather could cause damage to some buildings and driving conditions will be affected by spray and standing water, the weather service warns.

Train services and journeys by plane may also be delayed.

Yellow warnings can be issued for a range of weather situations.

Many are issued when it is likely that the weather will cause some low level impacts, including some disruption to travel in a few places.

Many people may be able to continue with their daily routine, but there will be some that will be directly impacted.

Meanwhile, the Environment Agency says residents across Maidstone should be prepared for possible flooding.

An eight-mile stretch from Hampstead Lock at Yalding to Allington Lock near Ringlestone, is expected to affect low-lying land and roads along the river.