DOWNPOURS led to flash flooding in Brighton and surrounding areas.

Fire crews had 15 emergency calls in one hour from Brighton yesterday (Saturday) morning.

High Street, Rottingdean, was blocked during lunchtime as firefighters pumped out flood water.

Crews also attended a property in Finden Road, Whitehawk, where flooding had affected electrics.

In Whitesmith, near Lewes, the East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service’s emergency centre had to temporarily close with 230 animals inside.

Staff arrived to find about one-third of the centre flooded by an inch of water, with the A22 next door also closed.

Trevor Weeks, founder of the centre, said police refused to allow volunteers through to the centre due to the road flooding.

He added: "Luckily we had some volunteers who managed to gain access before the police attended helping to prevent us from being in breach of animal welfare laws.

"As a result we have not been able to send any ambulances out or attend any casualties as a result. This is daft as we don’t have to drive through the flood water.”

The Met Office put out weather warning yesterday, saying heavy showers and thunderstorms were likely.

Today (Sunday May 31) the weather is due to be less severe, with a few very isolated afternoon showers possible.

The Met Office says coastal areas will remain cool and cloudy with a chilly breeze and maximum temparature of 22 degrees.