Storm Benjamin is set to bring misery to morning rush-hour commuters as heavy downpours and strong winds sweep the capital.
The Met Office has issues yellow weather warnings for wind and rain for London with gusts forecast to reach up to 50mph in the city.
The atrocious weather appears to already be impacting on travel with the Overground’s Lioness Line suspended between Willesden Junction and Watford due to a fallen tree blocking the track at Carpenders Park.
Forecasters have warned of possible travel disruption and power cuts as Londoners braced for the storm.
A deluge of heavy rain overnight is set to be followed by more bad weather with weather warnings in place throughout much of the day.
Flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and increased chances of accidents, while public transport is set to be disrupted, the Met Office has warned.
RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said: “We urge drivers to slow down according to the conditions, leaving a much bigger gap between themselves and the vehicle in front, and be wary of the buffeting effect of the wind when they pass high-sided vehicles.”
Passengers are urged to plan their journeys ahead of time amid fears that trains will be forced to operate at reduced speeds due to damage to overhead lines.
Transport for London — which runs the city’s Underground, Overground, Tramlink, Docklands Light Railway, buses and licensed taxis — confirmed they are not putting out any specific travel advice in relation to Storm Benjamin.
A man walks past Moorgate Station in the rain shortly before 6am on Thursday (Michael Howie)
But commuters who plan to use rail services such as Heathrow Express and South Western Railway have been advised to check timetables prior to departure.
The treacherous conditions could cause delays or cancellations to flights running out of London’s six airports.
KLM, the Dutch airliner which operates out of transport hubs such as London City Airport, said: “We are closely monitoring the situation.”
There is also a small chance of injuries and danger to life, as well as damage to buildings, caused by blistering winds and flying debris.
Chief Meteorologist Rebekah Hicks said: “It is worth noting that there is a greater than usual uncertainty surrounding the track and intensity of this low-pressure system, so the public should stay up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings as the situation evolves, with adjustments to the forecasts likely at short notice.”
Winds elsewhere in the country could reach up to 70mph during the storm.