THE sun deserted Devon for a day and a warning  regarding extreme heat gave way to concerns over heavy rainfall.

The Met Office issued the warning as heavy, thundery rain spread north-eastwards across the South West during the day with some downpours generating 25-50mm of rainfall — causing flash flooding in some parts of Cornwall. During the strongest showers driving conditions became treacherous as this scene on the M5 shows.

Today is set for a grey and misty start, but any rain should soon clear to leave pleasant sunny spells.

A Met Office spokesman said: “It should be very warm but with scattered afternoon showers inland. The maximum temperature will be  23C (73F).

“Saturday though to Monday will be rather changeable with sunshine and scattered showers on each day.

“Some of the showers may be heavy with a risk of thunder. It will gradually turn cooler.”