Winds reach 60mph in parts of UK as new warnings issued.
Powerful winds driving in the Atlantic Ocean are expected to lash large swathes of the country this morning.
North Wales, the Midlands, the north west, Yorkshire and East Anglia are all in the firing line.
A volatile area of low pressure hurtling towards the UK from the west is causing the brutal gales and downpours.
The severe conditions means thousands of commuters could have to deal with travel disruption on the roads and railways.
The Met Office has put a yellow weather warning in place until 9am this morning with strong winds set to continue throughout the day.
The alert reads: “Westerly winds will bring gusts of 40-50 mph, and locally into 60s of mph.
“In addition, rain will be heavy at times, especially over northwest England and north Wales.
“Whilst this weather is not unusual for the time of year, it brings the potential for disruption to transport, tree damage and temporary power cuts.”
he band of low pressure could cause above average levels of rainfall for October, forecasters have warned.
Commuters are urged to check for disruption before setting out for work.
Met Office spokeswoman Nicola Maxey said: “There is a deep area of low pressure crossing the country which is causing the strong winds and rain.
“The strongest gusts of 60mph are expected in exposed areas and places such as the Pennines and North Wales.