Storm Kathleen has caused chaos across the country after causing a number of river banks to burst leading to severe flooding in some areas.
West Sussex has been the hardest-hit area so far with rescue operations under way in the seaside town of Littlehampton after warnings of severe floodwaters in the wake of a huge deluge after the River Arun burst in the early hours of this morning.
Rescuers are also dealing with a ‘severe flooding incident’ at the Medmerry holiday park between Bracklesham and Selsey, where one person was taken to hospital after showing signs of hypothermia.
In Hampshire, flooding hit the railway at Lymington Pier, which has caused train cancellations and delays, while flooding near Bristol has caused some railway lines to close completely.
High winds have caused towering waves in Falmouth, Cornwall, which have seen two beach huts washed into the sea, with the area’s coastguard urging people to keep away.
In Hampshire, Worcester County Cricket Club saw a section of the pitch flooded at its New Road ground.
It comes after Met Office warned that wind speeds could reach up to 65mph along some stretches of the coast, adding strong gusts and rain could cause widespread disruption for motorists due to slippery road surfaces and limited visibility.
In a statement, West Sussex Fire and Rescue said: “Our crews are supporting rescue operations in Littlehampton near Ferry Road and Rope Walk where the River Arun has burst its banks, leading to severe flooding.
“Residents should remain in their properties if it is safe to do so and get as high as possible within their homes.
“Please avoid the area and remain in your homes where possible to allow our crews to work safely.”
Those in close proximity to the flooded holiday park are being urged to get to high ground, with disruption as a result of the storm expected to last until at least 10am.
