THE torrential rainfall of this morning is set to be followed by high winds whipping through Brighton and Hove this afternoon.

The Met Office has issed a yellow weather warning for wind across Sussex which will remain in place until 8pm.

It came into effect at noon, making it the second weather warning to be put in place in the county today.

The Met Office issued an alert for rain between 5am and 10am today, and the weather service's forecast proved to be accurate as Sussex was doused by downpours throughout the morning.

The Argus: The 'Level Lido' in Brighton this morning Credit: Sandy Moon of the Argus Camera ClubThe 'Level Lido' in Brighton this morning Credit: Sandy Moon of the Argus Camera Club

As a result, there is widespread flooding on roads in the south east causing heavy disruption for drivers.

The Met Office has now warned of winds "as high as 60 to 70 mph in a few spots" in the south of England this afternoon.

A spokesman said: "Conditions across the south of England will turn windier this afternoon and early evening.

"The windiest conditions will be in coastal areas where gales or severe gales are expected along with gusts of 50 to 60 mph for many and perhaps as high as 60 to 70 mph in a few spots.

"Parts of south west England are likely to see the highest winds during early to mid afternoon, while peak winds over parts of south east England will probably not be until later this afternoon and early evening.

"Meanwhile, these high winds will be accompanied by further showers and spells of rain, heavy at times."

The Argus: Waves batter Brighton and Hove seafront as high winds and heavy rain hit Sussex Credit: Simon DackWaves batter Brighton and Hove seafront as high winds and heavy rain hit Sussex Credit: Simon Dack

He warned that this was likely to impact road, rail, air, and ferry transport systems, with the potential for some homes to suffer a "short term loss of power".

"It’s likely that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and large waves," the spokesman said.

In Brighton, the highest winds are forecast for 3pm with wind gusts predicted to reach a peak of 48mph.