A sudden thunderstorm has left hundreds of homes without power and caused localised flooding in parts of the area, despite no storm warning being in place.

The storm hit at around 5.30pm on Monday afternoon, 22 June, bringing heavy rain, thunder and lightning after a day of hot and humid conditions.

A amber flood alert has been issued for the Rivers Brue, Sheppey, Glastonbury Millstream and North and South Drains.

Power cut information showed that over 300 homes were affected, with supplies expected to be restored by 7pm.

There were also reports of localised flooding following the downpour, which came as the wider Mendip area remains under a red extreme heat warning for later this week.

The Met Office red warning for extreme heat is in place from 9am on Wednesday, 24 June, until 9pm on Thursday, 25 June.

The warning says an exceptional spell of hot and humid weather is expected, with serious health impacts likely as temperatures climb sharply.

Forecasters say impacts are likely to affect the general population, not only those usually considered most vulnerable to extreme heat.

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Temperatures in the highlighted area are now increasingly likely to exceed 37C in the shade over a two to three-day period, with some places potentially reaching between 38C and 40C.

The warning also says very warm and humid nights may make it harder for people to recover from the daytime heat.

The Met Office has warned that daily routines and working practices may need to change during the warning period, with significant disruption to daily life possible.

It also warns of a high risk of failure for heat-sensitive systems and equipment, including power, water, electricity, gas and mobile phone services.

National Grid says people should call 105 in the event of a power cut or power-related emergency.

Residents are being advised to keep an eye on official updates, avoid travelling through floodwater, and plan around the hottest parts of the day later this week.