MOTORISTS faced the prospect of flooded roads, rain and gales as Storm Imogen hit Swindon today.

The Met Office issued an amber weather warning valid until 6pm, saying that gusts of up to 70mph were likely today.

The warning says: "An area of very strong winds is likely to extend east across southwest England and parts of central southern England on Monday morning.

"Gusts of 60-70 mph are likely widely, with 80 mph gusts in exposed coastal areas, particularly Cornwall and North Devon, and also along the South Wales coast and through the Bristol Channel. Some very large waves are also likely to affect many coasts, in particular north coasts of Cornwall and Devon.

"Winds should gradually ease through the afternoon and evening.

"Please be prepared for disruption to travel as well as possible damage to trees and structures, and interruption of power supplies."

The chief forecaster said: "An area of low pressure is expected to move eastwards across the UK on Monday with a swathe of very strong winds around its southern flank, which will affect parts of southern Britain.

"The winds are likely to be very gusty at times, particularly in association with heavy showers running across these areas.

"There remains some uncertainty in northward and eastward extent of the damaging winds as well as the peak strengths and so this warning will be kept under review."

Scottish and Southern Electricity Power Distribution says homes in Royal Wootton Bassett and Wroughton are without power.

Rail travellers are facing delays as Network Rail has imposed speed restrictions for most of the day because of the bad weather.

Almost 300 Environment Agency flood warnings are in place across the UK amid heavy downpours, with 59 warnings calling for "immediate action", particularly in the south west and Wales where parts are expected to see up to more than 1.5ins (40mm) of rain today.

Highways England has issued a severe weather alert for "high-sided vehicles, caravans and motorbikes, which are advised to take extra care when travelling, due to the increased risk of vehicles being blown over".

The B4069 at Christian Malford, near Chippenham, is flooded at The Bridge junction as is the B3106 in Staverton, at the B3105 junction, between Trowbridge and Holt.

This afternoon Maud Heath's Causeway in Kellaways, Chippenham, was closed near the Sutton Lane junction, because of flooding as is Hither Way Bridge in Lacock near the High Street junction.

A lane is blocked with slow traffic on the A350 in Chippenham around Malmesbury Road Roundabout because of a fallen tree and at Melksham the A3102 Bradford Road is partly blocked because of flooding.

Rail services in Wales, the south west and in southern areas are being disrupted due to strong winds, with speed restrictions and cancellations.

Delays, alterations and cancellations are expected, while speed restrictions are in place on Arriva Trains Wales, Great Western Railway, the Gatwick Express, South West Trains, Southern and Thameslink services due to high winds.

National Rail Enquiries said coastal routes are likely to be most affected and warned travellers to check services before they travel.

The Severn Bridge was closed eastbound and restricted westbound because of strong winds and services from ferry companies Brittany and P&O are cancelled and delayed.

Gatwick Airport also warned passengers flights could be delayed because of bad weather.

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