More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Kent looks set to endure further storms as weather warnings have been extended.
Yellow alerts for thunderstorms had already been in place until tomorrow, however these have now been extended until Monday.
A yellow alert is when there is a small chance of homes and businesses being flooded after sudden downpours.
There is chance of lightning strikes and large hail which could lead to damage and delays and cancellations to public transport.
The Met Office's chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen said: “Today warnings cover much of England, away from the east coast, Wales and parts of Scotland.
"The storms will be isolated but where they happen there will be frequent lightning, gusty winds and intense, heavy downpours with 30 to 40mm of rain possible in less than an hour and, in isolated spots, a small chance of 60 mm falling.
“With the continuing hot weather large swathes of the UK continue to be at risk from thunderstorms and potentially the impacts from heavy rain, into the early part of next week.”
Kent County Council have echoed the Met Office's warning.
The authority says high temperatures over the next few days could lead to the very heavy showers and thunderstorms, resulting in the flooding of homes and businesses from surface water, disruption to transport, power outages and damage to buildings.
What you need to know
There are many myths surrounding lightning such as lightning never strikes the same place twice or it always hits the tallest object. Both are false as lightning goes to the best conductor on the ground whether it has been struck before or not.
But lightning can cause power surges so unplug any non-essential electrical equipment if not using a surge protector.
During a storm, seek shelter if possible. When you hear thunder you are already within range - 10 miles - of where the next ground flash could land.
Telephone lines can conduct electricity so try to avoid using the land line unless in an emergency
If outside, avoid water and find a low-lying open place that is a safe distance from trees, poles or metal objects. Avoid activities such as golf, rod fishing or boating on a lake.
Be aware of metal objects that can conduct or attract lightning including golf clubs, golf buggies, fishing rods, umbrellas, motorbikes, bicycles, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, pushchairs, wire fencing and rails.
If you are in a tent, stay away from the metal poles
If you in an exposed location when the storm arrives it may be advisable to squat near to the ground with your hands on your knees and head tucked between them. Try to touch as little of the ground as possible. Do not lie down on the ground.
If you feel your hair stand on end, drop to the above position immediately
After a thunderstorm stay clear of downed power lines or broken cables.
If someone is struck by lightning the power surge could have affected their hearing and left them with severe burns.
If you are caught driving in a thunderstorm you should closed all windows and stay in your car because the metal roof and frame will act as a Faraday cage to keep you safe and pass the current to the ground.
Soft-top convertibles with fabric roofs are the most at risk and could catch fire if struck by lightning.
Cars with metal inside handles, foot pedals and steering wheels can also carry current.
Thunderstorms can also bring a risk of sudden gusty winds which can unsteady cyclists, motorcyclists and high-sided vehicles.
If hail is severe, stop and pull over to a safe place and remain inside the vehicle.
For all the forecasts, warnings and weather related news, click here.
