Storm Imogen batters south England, Wales

A combination of gales, high tides and heavy shower brought by Storm Imogen hit southern England and parts of South Wales on Monday.

The Met Office issued an amber warning of wind and two yellow warnings of rain and wind on Monday morning, saying an area of very strong winds is likely to extend east across southwest England and parts of central southern England on Monday morning.

It said gusts of 60-70 mph are likely widely spread, 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.

People should be prepared for disruption to travel as well as possible damage to trees and structures, and interruption of power supplies, the Met Office said.

Winds up to 96 mph has been recorded at The Needles off the Isle of Wight, according to local media. It said that more than 5,000 homes in southwest England, south and mid-Wales and the Midlands had power failure.

Bad weather has also impacted the transport in those affected areas, with some trains have suspended and ferries have been canceled. Several schools in Cornwall, southwest England, have been closed or opened late because of the storm. Trees also crashed on a house and a main railway in some areas.

The Met Office said winds should gradually ease through the afternoon and evening. Endit