Motorists in the south of England are being warned to take care on the roads as Storm Imogen moves in from the west.

Gale force winds of up to 96mph have been recorded at The Needles off the Isle of Wight coast.

Rail and ferry services have been severely disrupted by the storm, with some cross-Channel ferries having been cancelled.

"Be prepared" wind warnings have been issued for Wales, south-west England, London and south-east England by the Met Office. Coastal areas are especially at risk from large waves and flooding.

Meteorologists expect Cardiff and Bristol to be affected by high winds moving in from the Bristol Channel, with speeds of up to 80mph.

With almost 60 flood warnings in place across England and Wales, together with more than 200 flood alerts, floodwater poses a serious risk to motorists in the UK’s south and south west.

Wind too presents substantial problems. One motorist crashed into a fallen tree in Southampton earlier this morning. No one was injured.

Gary Webb, of Highways England, said: "We 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.

"If you do have to make a journey by road, be prepared, plan your journey in advance, and check the latest weather conditions along your route.

"Be aware of sudden gusts of wind and give high-sided vehicles, caravans and motorbikes plenty of space. In the event of persistent high winds, we may need to close bridges to traffic for a period, so please be alert for warnings of closures and follow signed diversion routes."