Drivers have been warned to stick to main roads as the county braces for heavy rainfall and flooding.

Following a weather warning issued by the Met Office, the emergency services are gearing up for a night of torrential downpours.

From midnight onwards Kent is predicted to experience "persistent" rain which could cause flooding.

The weather forecaster put out a warning yesterday but updated it today as the showers seemed more likely to cause problems.

Homes and businesses could be damaged by flooding and there is a small chance fast flowing or deep flood-water could cause danger to life.

The Environment Agency has also warned the rivers Medway, Beult and Stour, will burst their banks.

Roads and farmland around Hartfield, Ashurst and Fordcombe may flood from 05:00 am onwards and from 6am in Ashford including areas on the East Stour, Whitewater and Ruckinge Dykes and the Aylesford Stream.

Flooding could also occur from Pluckley and Bethersden, to Hampstead Lock at Yalding, including Smarden, Headcorn, Collier Street, Benover and The Lees.

Large parts of Kent could be completely underwater by 2050 if something is not done to tackle climate change. KMTV reports.

The River Eden, Eden Brook and Kent Ditch could also over-flow, affecting Blindley Heath to Penshurst including Edenbridge and Hever.

Emergency Enivronment Agency staff are working with the police and fire crews to ensure people's safety.

It is predicted rain and high river levels will continue through to Saturday.

Public transport users may face delays or cancellations to train and bus services.

Spray and flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

Kent Police tweeted: "With heavy rainfall predicted overnight and a weather warning issued remember to drive safely.

"In the event of a downpour drive carefully, slow down, use your headlights, stick to main roads (if possible) and look out for vulnerable road users."

The county's fire service has also taken to social media to remind drivers to be safe.

It tweeted: "Please take care if you're out driving in it, allowing more braking time and generally driving safely to suit the conditions. #DrivetoArrive."

For all the forecasts, warnings and weather related news, click here.

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