SURREY is braced for storm-like to conditions to hit this afternoon, with Met Office severe weather warnings in place for heavy rain leading to possible flooding, and damaging winds.
Some train services have already been cancelled and residents are warned to expect disruption as the storm sweeps in from the west. In Surrey, there is currently an amber warning in place for rain - meaning be prepared and take precautions - and a yellow warning in place for wind. Up to 60mm of rain could fall over higher ground in the south of England, with gusts inland as strong as 60, or possibly 70 mph.
Some train companies have already cancelled services from this afternoon, with delays expected across the network as speed limits are cut to 50 mph.
South West Trains is warning passengers to only travel this afternoon if it is absolutely necessary and to check services before setting off . A revised timetable will operate from 1pm today and last until at least 6am tomorrow.
Waterloo to Dorking and Epsom and Waterloo to Guildford via Effingham Junction or via Woking are among the routes to be cancelled from 1pm.
Meanwhile Southern is warning customers to expect delays and cancellations and to check routes before they set out.
Reigate on Ice, an ice rink open inside a big top in Priory Park, has announced it will be closed today due to the weather.
The Highways Agency is advising road users to be cautious and has issued an amber alert for drivers in the South East.
John McTaggart, head of on-road services at the Highways Agency said: "Road users are urged to check traffic and weather conditions before setting out on journeys and to heed any advice such as speed restrictions once they are on the strategic road network.
"Be aware of sudden gusts of wind, and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, motorbikes and bicycles plenty of space."
The latest warning from the Met Office said: "The public should be prepared for the likelihood of some significant disruption due to the combined hazards of heavy rainfall and high winds."
"A deep area of low pressure will sweep an active frontal system across England and Wales on Monday. This will bring 20-40 mm rainfall quite widely, with over 60 mm likely across parts of the high ground of southern England and South Wales. Falling onto saturated ground, this will bring the risk of both surface water and river flooding.
Meanwhile, south to southwesterly winds will increase with gusts 70-80 mph likely around exposed coasts, particularly along the English Channel. Further inland, gusts of 50-60 mph are likely through the amber area, with a lower risk of gusts reaching 70 mph - more especially across southeast England during the evening."
The weather warning is currently in place until 9am on Christmas Eve.
Rain will clear and winds will ease on Tuesday morning, with bright and colder weather in prospect for Christmas Day.
