A weather warning for strong winds has been issued for the whole of Kent with gusts of up to 70mph predicted.

The wind alert is in force from 8am today (Thursday) and lasts until 6pm.

Winds of 50mph are expected in most areas along with thunder and rain, but towns along the Channel coast could be hit with gusts of 60-70mph.

There is also a weather warning for heavy rain and heavy flooding on the outskirts of the county in place until 6pm.

The Met Office has warned that roads and railways could be affected, power could be lost and there is a small chance of danger to life due to huge waves.

A spokesperson for the body said: “There is a small chance that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.

“A band of heavy, squally rain is expected to move eastwards across England on Thursday with gusts of around 50mph in a few places very briefly, as well as some hail and thunder.

“However, there is a small chance of a broader swathe of very strong winds affecting southern and eastern England with gusts of 60 to 70mph, mostly likely close to the English Channel and southern North Sea coasts.

“There is a small chance of longer journey times or cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected.

“There is also a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs and power cuts may occur.

“Rain will be heavy at times and perhaps become more prolonged to give 3-6 hours of rain. Most places within the warning area will see 10-15 mm of rainfall, but a few places could see 30-40 mm with this falling onto already saturated ground.”