VERY strong winds are expected to extend across Surrey and Hampshire throughout Monday as Storm Imogen moves eastward across the UK.

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning urging the public to ‘be prepared’ for disruption to travel, as well as possible damage to trees and structures and interruption of power supplies.

Gusts of up to 70mph are likely, with 80mph gusts possible in exposed coastal areas. It comes after 97mph gusts were recorded off the Isle of Wight overnight.

Winds should gradually ease through the afternoon and evening, according to a Met Office spokesman.

A flood alert for the Upper River Wey, which includes Alton, Farnham, Bordon, Frensham, Tilford, Godalming, Guildford and Peasmarsh, has also been issued.

Property is not expected to be flooded but river levels on the Upper Wey are expected to rise in response to heavy rain overnight on Sunday and into Monday.

Flooding of low lying areas of land adjacent to the river is possible from Monday morning onwards, especially in the Tilford and Elstead Mill areas.

Highways England is also warning drivers in the South East to be prepared for strong gales until around 6pm on Monday and has issued an amber weather alert for motorways and major A roads in the region.

Gary Webb, of Highways England, said: “We are working closely with the Met Office to monitor weather conditions and would encourage drivers, especially those driving high-sided vehicles, motorcycles or considering a trip with a caravan, to consider driving conditions before setting off as they could be difficult.”