Flood alerts are now in force for several parts of Kent as heavy rain is forecast overnight and tomorrow in the county.
The Environment Agency says flooding is possible along the River Medway from Forest Row to Penshurst, including Ashurst, as well as from Hampstead Lock at Yalding to Allington Lock – including East Farleigh, Wateringbury, Teston and Teston Park, Tovil and Maidstone, including Millennium Park.
The Environment Agency has issued flood warnings for parts of Kent. Stock picture
Warnings have also been issued for Rivers Eden, Eden Brook and Kent Ditch from Blindley Heath to Penshurst, including Edenbridge and Hever, as well as the River Teise area from Lamberhurst to Goudhurst, including the River Bewl and tributaries of the River Teise.
It comes as a yellow weather warning for wind and heavy rain was issued earlier this week by the Met Office.
The alert is in place until 9pm today and covers parts of Maidstone and Folkestone, as well as Ashford, Cranbrook and Tunbridge Wells.
There is likely to be 15 to 25mm of rainfall, with up to 40 to 60mm in some places, such as over the Downs.
Forecasters also say there will be strong winds, perhaps of up to 50 mph, in some coastal areas.
Now the Environment Agency has warned that river levels are forecast to rise due to the heavy rainfall.
In the alert, they stated low-lying land and towpaths close to the River Medway in Yalding, Wateringbury and East Farleigh are likely to be affected, with flooding possible from this evening.
They added that underpasses in Maidstone Town Centre are also at risk until tomorrow morning.
A spokesperson said: “We are closely monitoring the situation. Please take care and avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water.”