Thunderstorms bring threat of flooding after hottest day of the year, recorded in Santon Downham near Thetford

Flooding could cause disruption following last night’s storm, hot on the heels of the warmest day of the year to date.

The Met Office said Santon Downham, near Thetford, reached 29.4C yesterday — setting a new high for the year, but it has been followed by warnings for thunderstorms in other parts of the country.

More than 30,000 lightning strikes were recorded in the UK up to 6am today as storms push northwards, although the Met Office said the ‘vast majority’ had been over the sea.

The Met Office said showers will continue to ease through Sunday, with dry weather for most of the country on Monday and Tuesday.

Katharine Smith, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, said: “There is a risk of significant and localised surface water flooding impacts in parts of England.

“Environment Agency teams have ensured rivers and watercourses are clear ahead of the storms and stand ready to support local authorities in their response to surface water flooding.

“We urge people not to drive through flood water as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.”