FLOODS and extreme weather could sweep across the News Shopper area today (Dec 23) with gale force winds of up to 70mph.

Train company Southeastern has announced train speeds will reduce to 50 miles per hour this afternoon and warns there could be cancellations at short notice.

The Environment Agency has warned people to check the flood risks for their areas and if needed, protect valuables at home and rethink driving plans.               

It has issued a floor alert  in the Darent Catchment which includes the River Darent from Westerham to Dartford, including Brasted, Sundridge, Chipstead, Dunton Green, Otford, Eynsford and South Darenth. 

There is also an Amber Warning for rain in parts of southern England and gale force winds will be added hazards with gusts of up to 70mph in some areas.

People should prepare for some significant disruption due to the combined hazards of heavy rainfall and high winds and it is expected rainfall should clear across southeast England on Tuesday morning.

An Enviroment Agency spokesman said: “People who are set to be away for the festive period are urged to check the flood risk for their local area and, if necessary, take steps to protect valuable items left at home.

“Drivers are also urged to check the latest flood updates ahead of their journey - and urged not to drive through dangerous floodwater.”

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Southeastern announced on its website: "Bad weather may affect travel this afternoon through to tomorrow morning.

"Weather reports are for heavy rain and strong winds from 4pm in the afternoon through to 9am tomorrow.

"As a precaution a speed restriction of 50 miles an hour will be in place.

"There may be some services cancelled at short notice - particularly in the Kent and Sussex coastal areas."

The extreme weather is predicted to ease off by 9am tomorrow.

For more information, visit: environment-agency.gov.uk/news/151360.aspx

Have you encountered extreme weather in the News Shopper patch? Send your pictures or get in touch on 01689 885 721 or hwood@london.newsquest.co.uk