South Coast to be hit by 70mph winds and flooding

The South Coast is bracing itself today for the threat of coastal flooding from a combination of storm- force winds and high tides.

The Met Office warned that winds exceeding 70mph could batter the coastline later today.

The AA advised drivers to be alert for dangerous road conditions and the Coastguard Agency warned sightseers to keep away from the expected big seas.

Forecasters said gusts would be strong enough to bring down trees and cause disruption to road, rail and sea transport.

A Met Office spokesman said: "There is a fairly intense depression working its way up through the Bay of Biscay. Winds will steadily increase reaching a peak during the afternoon and evening."

The spokesman added that although the 70mph wind speed was "not particularly remarkable in terms of October weather, coupled with the high tides it is giving us some concern".

The Environment Agency said the south Cornwall and Devon coasts could also be at risk from a possible storm surge, and it would be monitoring the situation.