'Storm of 2009' hits southern England, Wales
Parts of south England and Wales hit by fiercest storm of 2009 as heavy rain and strong winds see flood warnings issued
Saturday, 14, Nov 2009 10:10
By Matthew Champion
Parts of southern England and Wales are battening down the hatches as forecasters warn of more heavy rain and gale-force winds.
Wind speeds could reach up to 80mph on Saturday, the Met Office said, while flood warnings are in place across the affected regions.
Conditions are expected to improve by Sunday afternoon, the Met Office said, but this "brief respite" would then turn into storm conditions for the rest of the week.
The Environment Agency had almost 30 flood warnings in place on Saturday.
And the Highways Agency warned of the dangers of strong winds to high-sided lorries and motorcyclists.
Met Office chief forecaster Bob Wilderspin said: "We are expecting severe weather over the next few days.
"We are monitoring how the situation develops, issuing forecasts and warnings to keep you updated. You are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecast on TV, radio or online."