Mid Sussex Police have said to ‘only travel if essential’ ahead of the approaching Storm Austen

Following wind and rain warnings issued by the Met Office, Sussex police force are expecting to see disruptions across the area in the next few days.

Storm Austen is expected to hit Mid Sussex late on Thursday October 22.

In a post on Facebook, a spokesperson for Mid Sussex Police said: “Following wind and rain warnings issued by the Met Office, we might expect to see disruptions across Sussex in the next few days.

Burgess Hill during storm (Image: Hollie Robards)

placeholder image — Burgess Hill during storm (Image: Hollie Robards)

“Seriously slow your speed if you need to drive, or only travel if essential

“Road debris and fallen trees could disrupt your journey

“Avoid driving through floodwater

“Stay away from coastal areas

“Stay up to date with the weather by listening to local radio stations

“Our phone lines tend to be extremely busy during weather warnings, please only call 999 if it is an emergency; remember our website is available for non-emergency reports 24/7.

“To report fallen trees that do not present an immediate danger or risk to life, please call the numbers pictured for your area.”