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Kent hit by thunderstorms and Met Office yellow weather warning in place

Kent has been hit by thunderstorms this morning.

Many would have been awoken by the heavy rain, thunder and lightning as the storm took hold of the county in the early hours.

The early morning storm over Bethersden. Picture: Simon Bates
The early morning storm over Bethersden. Picture: Simon Bates

Fire crews were called to a house fire in Broadstairs after lightning hit the roof and more than 200 homes have been left with out power on Romeny Marsh.

It comes after a heatwave saw temperatures reach above 30C yesterday, with thousands flocking to the coast, leading to major delays on the roads.

Temperatures are still expected to reach the high 20s and even 30C again today, but alongside more thunderstorms as the day progresses.

The lightning over the Kinsferry Bridge to Sheppey. Picture: Peter from Sheppey
The lightning over the Kinsferry Bridge to Sheppey. Picture: Peter from Sheppey

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for the whole of the UK from midday.

The warning is in place until 9am tomorrow.

Flooding of homes and businesses could happen quickly, and fast-flowing or deep water is possible, causing danger to life, according to the Met Office.

A lightning strike captured by Peter from Sheppey just before 6am
A lightning strike captured by Peter from Sheppey just before 6am

Where lightning strikes or flooding occurs, there is a chance of delays to rail or bus services.

Drivers are being urged to be extra careful, as surface water has already been seen on some roads, including the M20, which could lead to spray, reduced vision and difficult driving conditions.

Power cuts might occur and some communities could be cut off if roads are closed.

The storm over Finberry in Ashford. Picture: Dan Kent
The storm over Finberry in Ashford. Picture: Dan Kent
Surface water on the M20 coastbound. Picture: Simon Bates
Surface water on the M20 coastbound. Picture: Simon Bates

Read more: All the latest news from Kent

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