People in London have been warned not to take any chances as Storm Ciarán batters the city with heavy rainfall and winds of up to 60mph.
The entire south coast of England is under Amber warnings, while the capital is under ‘yellow’ warnings for wind and rain. Northern Ireland has already experienced substantial flooding as a result of the storm.
The wettest weather is anticipated to hit the south of England, including London, between Wednesday evening and Friday early.
Strong northwesterly winds, according to the Met Office, might disrupt traffic and inflict structural damage to buildings, while flying debris could endanger lives.
Train and bus delays, as well as hazardous floods, are expected in London on Wednesday and Thursday.
Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner Charlie Pugsley said: “With a yellow warning for wind and rain in place, it’s important Londoners take extra care.
“Avoid travelling in strong winds where possible, and never shelter under trees or by fencing. Powerful winds could cause them to collapse and injure you.
“Heavy rain will also increase the chance of flooding across London. You shouldn’t attempt to drive through floodwater as you don’t know how deep it is.
“Just 6 inches of fast flowing water is enough to knock someone over, and a foot of fast flowing water can float a car. If you find yourself trapped by floodwater, call 999 and follow the advice of the operator”
According to Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Suri, the storm will bring coastal gusts of 60 to 70 mph along the south coast, as well as heavy rain to various regions of the UK.
“Much of southern England and south Wales, as well as parts of north Wales, northeast England, southeast Scotland and perhaps the east of Northern Ireland look to see the wettest conditions between Wednesday evening and Friday morning.”