Surrey: Flooding and power outages amid Storm Ciarán

Network Rail has reported a fallen tree on the tracks at Gomshall, between Guildford and Gatwick Airport.

Storm Ciarán has been sweeping across Surrey, causing widespread flooding, park closures and power outages.

Yellow rain and wind warnings were issued across Surrey from 18:00 GMT on Wednesday to 23:59 on Thursday.

There were 6,554 properties in Surrey without power, with residents in Woking, Onslow, Ifield, Ewhurst and Shamley Green having reported outages, but most have had supplies restored.

South Western Railway train lines were blocked by floods and fallen trees.

Amber and yellow weather warnings - indicating potential risk to life and property - were in place covering parts of the UK, with south-east England experiencing some of the most extreme weather.

• Hundreds of schools shut as Storm Ciarán batters southern England

BBC Weather forecaster Matt Taylor said Wisley in Surrey was only seeing gusts up to 8mph at about 08:00 as it was "close to the centre of the storm system".

"It's perfectly normal to see that in such weather systems," he said.

"In hurricanes it is termed 'the eye of the storm.'"

Fields have been flooded in Leigh during the storm

Public park Painshill in Cobham said it would be closed on Thursday due to high winds in the area.

The Royal Horticultural Society also announced the closure of RHS Garden Wisley due to adverse weather conditions.

"For the safety of our visitors, staff and volunteers, the gardens will sadly have to close," a spokesperson said.

There were 19 flood alerts in Surrey due to Storm Ciarán.

Areas affected include the River Wey, Upper Ouse, Upper Arun, Western Rother, River Mole, River Blackwater and Cranleigh Waters.

Fallen trees on railway lines have been cut back at Cooks Crossing in Surrey

Meanwhile, Network Rail reported fallen trees on the tracks at Gomshall, between Guildford and Gatwick Airport, as well as Cooks Crossing and near Leatherhead.

A spokesperson said: "Our chainsaw gangs are out in force clearing trees so we can reopen affected lines as quickly and safely as possible."

South Western Railway also reported heavy rain flooding the line between Ash and Wanborough. Trains between Guildford and Aldershot were cancelled as a result.

Rail passengers are being warned of significant disruption over two days

On Wednesday, Southern Railway told commuters to work from home if possible and avoid any non-essential journeys.

Gatwick Express and Thameslink routes were also expected to be affected.

Southeastern said rail users with tickets for Thursday will be able to use them on services on Friday, or alternatively, apply for a refund.

"High winds can blow debris and trees onto the tracks, and if the storm continues as forecast, we'll need to slow our trains down to keep you moving safely, and in some instances, we may need to close some routes altogether," a spokesperson said.

Surrey Highways asked drivers only to take to the roads if their journey is essential.

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service warned motorists to drive slowly, secure loose objects outdoors and check on vulnerable neighbours and relatives.

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