High winds prompt safety warnings

Roads in Guildford were affected by localised flooding

High winds in the South East have led to warnings to drivers to take extra care on the roads.

The Highways Agency warned of strong winds affecting coastal routes through Hampshire, Sussex and Kent, with gusts reaching 60mph or more.

Drivers of high-sided vehicles, caravans and motorbikes were advised to avoid travelling to the coast because of increased risk of being blown over.

Affected routes included Hampshire's M27, the A27 in Sussex and A2 in Kent.

In Guildford, Surrey, flooding affected roads near the city centre during the early afternoon.

Thorney Island in West Sussex recorded 15mm (0.6in) of rain between 0600 and 1200 GMT.

Sheltering ships

A Highways Agency spokesman said: "All road users are urged to drive with extra care.

"Drivers of high-sided vehicles or cars towing caravans, and those on two wheels, should take extra care when strong winds are forecast."

He added that motorcyclists could be affected by turbulence caused by large vehicles.

The Highways Agency would be monitoring conditions closely and officers would be patrolling motorways to clear any incidents quickly and safely, he said.

Met Office weather forecasts said there would be heavy rain and severe gales with gusts up to 70mph, especially near coastal areas.

The Environment Agency had several flood watches for parts of Sussex and Kent on Monday.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service said it had received flooding calls from properties in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge.

In Kent, a spokesman for Dover Harbour Board said 15 to 20 ships had anchored in Margate harbour to weather out the storm.

Thamesport on the Isle of Grain, a port used solely by container ships, closed at 1100 GMT, leading to lorries queuing and the closure of the A228 at the Christmas Lane roundabout. It reopened just before 1600 GMT.

Ferry delays

The Port of Dover said rough sea conditions in the Channel, along with with a force nine wind, affected some sailings.

Slight disruption was being caused to departures from the port's Eastern Docks with P&O Ferries and SeaFrance to Calais.

In addition, services with Norfolkline to Dunkirk were also subject to delays, a port spokesman said.

Kent Police warned motorists to take extra care, watch for pedestrians and cyclists, and slow down.

Householders were warned to fasten loose objects outside, keep doors and windows closed, and park in garages where possible, or away from trees.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said it had been called out to reports of a flooded road and pub in the mid-Sussex area.

In Hampshire, people were advised to look after their neighbours if floods hit properties, and drivers were urged to stay off the road if possible.