TORRENTIAL rain is expected to batter Brighton this afternoon as the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for a thunderstorm.

Scattered torrential thundery downpours are set to hit the city from midday, with the forecaster implementing the warning until 10pm.

There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from flood water, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.

According to the Met Office, there is also a small chance of fast-flowing or deep flood water.

A spokesman said: "Many places missing the worst, but scattered torrential thundery downpours may bring some impacts, such as flooded roads.

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

"Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services.

"There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost."

A day of rain is expected to follow the thunderstorm tomorrow, with temperatures reaching a high of 19C.