HAMPSHIRE is bracing itself for stormy weather that will batter the county later today.

Both heavy rain and strong winds are expected and the county has a severe weather warning in place.

Gusts of up to 70mph are predicted, weather experts have warned.

The Met Office has urged people to stay alert and be prepared for travel disruption after issuing a yellow warning.

The wintry weather has already started to cause havoc across the South.

This morning train passengers were delayed after trains between Southampton and Fareham were halted.

The silver birch had fallen onto the track blocking the line.

A Met Office spokesman, said: “A spell of very wet and very windy weather is expected.

“Coming so soon after the heavy rain which fell in places earlier in the week this is likely to provoke further issues with flooding.

“Additionally winds will gust to 50 to 60mph in places, and could exceed 70mph in some exposed western areas.

“In view of the wind and rain combination the public should be prepared for some transport disruption.”