WILD weather is wreaking havoc on Britain’s roads as Storm Claudio takes hold. Warnings for torrential rain and howling winds are in force for much of the UK before temperatures plunge to as low as -2C.
The French squall has already brought heavy downpours and flash flooding.
But the fierce conditions look set to continue through today and overnight.
A yellow warning for rain is in place for south-eastern England until 3pm during which “persistent” showers and 1.5inches are expected.
Spray and flooding on roads will increase journey times and homes and businesses are at risk of serious water damage.
A separate alert for “very strong winds” of up to 70mph covered northern Scotland until 8am.
But most of the UK can expect autumnal weather and highs of just 13C.
It was a soggy start havoc for commuters in London who face water-logged stations and streets this morning.
Almost all Tube lines and several train networks are part-suspended or closed because of the conditions, while some roads have been shut off by police.
Anyone using the Gatwick Express, Great Northern, Southern, Southeastern, South Western, Great Western, London Overground and Thameslink services can expect severe delays due to flooding on the tracks.
Elsewhere, fallen trees are blocking paths in parts of Sussex and planes are struggling to land in Bristol.
And cars were badly damaged in Bedminster after scaffolding blew into the road in the early hours.
Kent County Council warned people to “be careful out there” after it had multiple reports of weather-related issues across its road network.
It’s so wet out there, a total of 35 flood alerts and five more severe warnings have been issued across England, Scotland and Wales.
In some areas, like Buxted, near Uckfield in East Sussex, residents have been urged to turn off their gas, water and electricity and move family and pets to safety upstairs.
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