Brighton and Hove battered by gales with more on the way
Stormy winds battered Brighton and Hove yesterday (Tuesday 3 January), blowing down trees, as heavy rain fell for much of the day.
More strong winds are expected from late afternoon today (Wednesday 4 January) and are forecast to last well into Thursday.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said yesterday: “Calls started coming in at just after 11am, with the first reporting a dangerous window structure in Portland Road, Hove.”
Trees were blown over, blocking Tongdean Road in Hove.
As well as the usual array of wheelie bins and black recycling boxes being blown along the city’s streets, a number of back garden trampolines were lifted by gusts, causing damage.
The fire service said that crews were called out to 13 weather-related incidents across Brighton and Hove and East Sussex in just two hours while also dealing with reports of fallen trees.
In a statement, the fire service said: “Other callouts included flooding of electrics, power cables down and precariously hanging canopies as well as a damaged lamp post.
“Thankfully, there have been no reported injuries.”
It offered safety advice during the high winds and heavy rain.
The advice included
- Avoid going outside if possible
- Stay away from any structures which could collapse such as walls and fences
- Avoid the temptation to repair anything damaged by the strong winds until the weather calms down
- When driving take extra care, be extra vigilant and look out for any unexpected items on the road
