Storm Austen causes disruption in South East

Storm Austen has brought strong winds and heavy rain to South East England, causing widespread travel disruption.

Roads, railways, ferries and flights have been impacted across Kent, Surrey and Sussex as the first named storm this winter moves through.

Southern Rail said a tree fell onto a platform in Angerming earlier on Friday morning, affecting train services between the West Sussex village and Worthing.

The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for wind for much of England between 10:00 and 21:00 BST, with gusts expected to reach up to 70mph.

An earlier warning for the Southeast's coastal areas came into effect on Thursday evening.

Winds of up to 70mph were expected in some places Friday afternoon, according to the Met Office.

Martin Funnell, West Sussex County Council head of resilience, urged people to "be sensible".

"Slow down when you are driving, think about whether you have loose objects in your garden which could cause harm.

"Look out for your neighbours and families that might need that little bit of extra support in these conditions," he told BBC Radio Sussex.

Southern Railway said there were multiple incidents impacting its network, with trees blocking lines between Haywards Heath and Three Bridges, Lewes and Brighton, and Uckfield and Crowborough.

Thamelink also reported disruption to some of its services.

Ferry services from Newhaven to Dieppe were cancelled, as were those between Dover and Calais.

Kent County Council said a number of trees were down on roads across the county as it urged people to "take care".

Roads in parts of West and East Sussex were also impacted.

Gatwick Airport warned of a small number of flight cancellations to the Channel Islands.

UK Power Networks told the BBC its teams in the South East were busy.

"However, there are no widespread power issues," it added.

The Met Office wind warning means people should expect short-term losses of power, spray and large waves on sea fronts and delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes.

It urged people to check road conditions if driving or bus and train timetables before travelling.

"Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly," the Met Office added.

It recommended people stay up to date with the weather forecast in their area.

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