First we had the heatwave – now we are being warned about flash flooding today.

Police and forecasters issued the warning for Sussex.

A Sussex Police spokesman said: “A flood alert has been issued. We have been warned there could be very heavy rainfall, flash flooding, thunderstorms and even hail stones.

“The message to motorists is to take care. If you need to go at 10mph, then go at 10mph.”

A Met Office spokesman told The Argus: “There is risk of heavy showers in the evening.

“The forecast is bad for evening rush-hour time.

“Not everywhere is going to get showers but some places definitely will, heading down from the north.

“There will also be showers coming up from France and they could merge.

“You may not see anything but Sussex could get some very lively showers and hail just for good measure.

“This is the first time this year there has been very high temperatures followed by a thunderstorm.

“But we are paying for a day of sunshine.

“The good news is it will get better as the week goes on.”