A FALLEN tree has caused the closure of the A24 as Storm Eunice batters Sussex.

Police are on the scene after a fallen tree blocked the road near Findon Valley, Worthing, on Friday afternoon.

Photos show a number of police officers and members of the public looking on as the tree blocks the road.

The Argus: Fallen tree causes A24 closure near Worthing as Storm Eunice hits Sussex Fallen tree causes A24 closure near Worthing as Storm Eunice hits Sussex

Adur and Worthing also announced that their maintenance teams have been made aware of timber hoarding falling around the perimeter of the Teville Gate and Union Place sites in Worthing.

“The western footpath of the A24 bridge has been tapped off at both ends,” a council spokeswoman said.

“Please pass with caution on the opposite side.”

During the storm, homes have been left without power, flights and trains have been suspended and roads, schools and businesses have closed.

Potentially record-breaking gusts of more than 120mph have been recorded in the most exposed areas.

Sussex Police previously issued a statement warning the public of dangerous conditions.

“Expect significant disruption and dangerous conditions,” a police spokesman said.

"Avoid non-essential journeys. Flying debris and falling trees are likely."

The Argus: Fallen tree causes A24 closure near Worthing as Storm Eunice hits SussexFallen tree causes A24 closure near Worthing as Storm Eunice hits Sussex

Amid the chaos, emergency services were forced to issue warnings for people to stay away from the worst affected areas.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “We should all follow the advice and take precautions to keep safe.”

Roy Stokes from the Environment Agency said it was “probably the most stupid thing you can do” to travel to the most exposed places.

Several red warnings were issued in late February and early March 2018 during the so-called “Beast from the East”, the storm that brought widespread heavy snow and freezing temperatures to many parts of the UK.