PEOPLE have been advised to stay at home and stay away from the coast as a red weather warning for Sussex comes into force.

The Met Office has said that Storm Eunice is set to cause significant disruption and dangerous conditions, with the prospect of 80mph gusts along the south coast.

They have warned the public to expect flying debris that could pose a danger to life, damage to buildings, homes and power lines, large waves, and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads.

A red warning for the region is now in place until 3pm this afternoon.

Brighton Lifeboat Station urged people to avoid exposed coastal areas as the storm blows through, with Sussex Police calling on the public to avoid non-essential journeys as falling trees are likely.

Brighton and Hove City Council have suspended all refuse and recycling collections, as well as street cleaning services, due to Storm Eunice - with plans to catch up over and after the weekend.

They have also warned of a risk of flying pebbles due to shingle being blown off the beach, with their seafront team on patrol along the coast.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service have said those who do need to venture out should avoid going near buildings, trees and fences, with East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service urging those travelling by car to drive slowly and be aware of side winds.

UK Power Networks, which distributes power across south east England, has said that while its electricity network is built to be "resilient", it said the extreme weather could affect overhead power lines.

A spokesman for the company said: "As always, our priorities in these situations are public safety and restoring supplies to customers as quickly and safely as possible".

People affected by power outages who need extra support are able to access free services from UK Power Networks by calling them on 08000 028 4581 and asking about their Priority Services Register.

Travel across the county has been disrupted, with train operators urging people not to travel. Tickets for Southern and Thameslink services for today are being accepted tomorrow.

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