Weather Warning upgraded to Amber in the South

An amber severe weather warning for strong winds and rain has been issued by the Met Office for today as Storm Imogen is set to batter the South Gusts of up to 90mph overnight have been recorded on The needles on the Isle of Wight. Overnight in Southsea the council closed the barriers on Clarence Parade as gale force ten winds and 30 foot high waves smashed against the sea defences. Buildings on Hayling Island have also been damaged after the island was hit by a thunderstorm. One Island resident said a small tornado went across the area. Monday morning rush hour may come with disruption of storm winds effecting many. The advice from the Police and motoring organisations is drive to the conditions and follow advisory speed limits. ‘Be Prepared’ is the message from the Met Office as they warn of possible damage to trees and structures, as well as interruption of power supplies. Risk to personal safety from flying debris is included within an amber warning. The warning, which is in place from 03:00 until 18:00, supersedes a previously issued yellow weather warning for wind. It is thought to be the first time in 18 months that the Isle of Wight has come under an amber warning. The Met Office say there remains some uncertainty in northward and eastward extent of the damaging winds as well as the peak strengths and as such the warning will be kept under review.