Severe weather warning in place as Hurricane Gonzalo passes over county

Remnants of the gale – which has rumbled its way over the Atlantic after battering Bermuda – have led to more locally severe gales throughout the country today, causing the Met Office to extend its yellow alert across southern and eastern counties.

Gusts of more than 50 mph are likely inland, with speed highs of 25mph already experienced in Hemel Hempstead.

Nearby Heathrow airport has also suspended a number of flights due to the poor weather.

Meteorologists have warned the public to be aware of the potential for disruption to travel and possible damage to trees.

Additionally, a deep depression is affecting the UK with strong winds in its circulation, and there remains the potential for disruption to travel, especially as heavy showers run through, increasing the gust strength.

According to the national severe weather warning service, fallen leaves impeding drainage increases the risk of surface water affecting roads, while some damage to trees is possible, given that many are still in full leaf.

It has felt noticeably colder in the Dacorum region today, with highs of only eight degrees Celsius expected.