The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for strong winds and heavy rain across the South on Thursday, warning that the stormy conditions could bring disruption to travel and power supplies.
Forecasters say gusts of up to 60 miles per hour are possible in coastal areas, with heavy and persistent rain expected to fall throughout the day. The warning covers much of the South coast and surrounding inland areas, including parts of Hampshire, West Sussex and East Sussex.
The Met Office says the weather could lead to power cuts, damage to buildings, and flooding in some areas, while road, rail, and ferry services could face delays or cancellations. Drivers are being urged to plan ahead, allow extra time for journeys, and take care on exposed routes and coastal roads where conditions may be hazardous.
The stormy spell follows a series of unsettled weather patterns affecting much of the UK in recent weeks, with forecasters warning that more rain is likely into the weekend. Ground conditions in many areas are already saturated, raising concerns about surface water flooding and difficult driving conditions.
Emergency services and local councils are reminding residents to secure outdoor furniture, bins, and garden items ahead of the winds, and to avoid walking near coastal paths or cliffs during high gusts.
The yellow warning is in place from midnight until late Thursday evening, with conditions expected to ease overnight into Friday.
For the latest updates, residents are advised to follow Met Office forecasts, monitor local travel alerts, and check with transport operators before making any journeys.
Listen to the latest travel and weather information here on V2 Radio, heard across the South on DAB, online and via the V2 Radio APP
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