Storm Austen has made landfall, causing major travel disruption with trains cancelled or delayed and terrible conditions on the roads as 66 schools have closed for the day.
Two flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected, are in place on parts of the Dorset Coast and South Devon Coast. The Environment Agency says people in those areas should "move to higher ground."
Wind warnings and expected gusts
A yellow wind warning covering south-west England, the south coast, parts of Wales and Herefordshire started at 10pm Thursday and runs until 5pm today (Friday). Gusts of 50 to 60mph are likely, with 70mph or more possible in some coastal and exposed areas.
More severe weather has hit parts of the South West, with an amber alert covering Cornwall, Devon, the Isles of Scilly and Plymouth until 10am. Winds of 60 to 70mph are expected widely there, with gusts of around 80mph possible on exposed headlands. The Met Office has warned flying debris could lead to injuries and poses a "danger to life."
A second yellow warning comes into force from 10am until 9pm today, covering a much wider area across England and Wales, including London, the Midlands, the North West and parts of Yorkshire. Gusts of around 45 to 55mph are possible.
Travel disruption and safety advice
Several train lines are already impacted by the storm. Trees have fallen on railway lines across the country, with services facing delays and cancellations. There is disruption between Branksome and Bournemouth, all lines are blocked due to a tree on the railway between Uckfield and Crowborough, and services between Clandon and Effingham Junction are also impacted due to another fallen tree.
In Scotland, ScotRail has implemented speed restrictions for Friday due to the Met Office weather warning for heavy rain. The rail provider said it "has implemented speed restrictions across parts of the railway, meaning a revised timetable will be in place across some routes tomorrow." These restrictions are being introduced to allow trains to operate safely during the forecast weather conditions.
UK Power Networks has issued a warning to avoid any overhead power lines and report them. The Met Office has advised people to "prepare to protect your property and people from injury," urging checks for loose items outside homes such as bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences. People are also advised to gather torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items for potential power cuts.
Coastal risks and emergency response
The Met Office warns of "injuries and danger to life... from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties" in the South West. It advises: "If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."
An RNLI rescue operation was launched to save a sailor whose yacht had run aground on Scarweather Sands and was flooding.
Drivers have been urged to take care when travelling in stormy conditions, with the forecaster warning "if it's time for your wipers, it's time to slow down."
