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Storm Benjamin bringing misery to morning commuters as heavy downpours and strong winds sweep the capital. The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for wind and rain for London with gusts forecast to reach up to 50mph in the city. The atrocious weather is already impacting on travel with the Overground’s Lioness Line suspended between Willesden Junction and Watford due to a fallen tree blocking the track at Carpenders Park. Forecasters have warned of possible travel disruption and power cuts as Londoners braced for the storm. A deluge of heavy rain overnight is set to be followed by more bad weather with weather warnings in place throughout much of the day. Flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and increased chances of accidents, while public transport is set to be disrupted, the Met Office has warned. Flood alerts have been issued for much of Kent, Surrey and Sussex. RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said: “We urge drivers to slow down according to the conditions, leaving a much bigger gap between themselves and the vehicle in front, and be wary of the buffeting effect of the wind when they pass high-sided vehicles.” There have also been dozens of sewage discharges into waterways brought on by the heavy rain, Surfers Against Sewage reported. Meanwhile, both Brittany Ferries and DFDS have issued delays and cancellations to their services as the seas are rocked by the storm. Passengers are urged to plan their journeys ahead of time amid fears that trains will be forced to operate at reduced speeds due to damage to overhead lines. Transport for London — which runs the city's Underground, Overground, Tramlink, Docklands Light Railway, buses and licensed taxis — confirmed they are not putting out any specific travel advice in relation to Storm Benjamin. But commuters who plan to use rail services such as Heathrow Express and South Western Railway have been advised to check timetables prior to departure. Winds at speeds of more than 40mph have been reported across the capital already this morning, with strong gusts expected to continue throughout the day. The treacherous conditions could cause delays or cancellations to flights running out of London’s six airports. KLM, the Dutch airliner which operates out of transport hubs such as London City Airport, said: “We are closely monitoring the situation.” There is also a small chance of injuries and danger to life, as well as damage to buildings, caused by blistering winds and flying debris. Chief Meteorologist Rebekah Hicks said: “It is worth noting that there is a greater than usual uncertainty surrounding the track and intensity of this low-pressure system, so the public should stay up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings as the situation evolves, with adjustments to the forecasts likely at short notice." Winds elsewhere in the country could reach up to 70mph during the storm.
