More than 2,500 people across Sussex are without power as Storm Henk hits the county with strong winds and heavy rain.

A weather warning is in place for wind and rain until 9pm today, with the Met Office warning of disruption to rail services and the prospect of the loss of power and other services.

Outages have been reported in Pulborough, Slindon, Hassocks, Burgess Hill, Newick, Alfriston, Jevington, Crawley, Three Bridges, Johns Cross and Rye as winds of up to 70mph strike coastal areas in southern England.

As many as 2,600 people are understood to be without power across the county.

UK Power Networks have said they have deployed additional staff to cover operational, technical and call centre roles and are working to restore supply as quickly and safely as possible.

A spokesman for UK Power Networks said: “Strong winds are forecast across the South East and East of England.

“We are currently monitoring the weather closely and are in regular contact with the Met Office as the forecast for Storm Henk develops.

“Our electricity network is built to be resilient but extreme weather can affect overhead power lines.

“We urge the public to stay well clear from power lines and anyone spotting a damaged power line should report it to us immediately.

“As always our priorities in these situations are public safety and restoring supplies to customers as quickly and as safely as possible.”

Customers can report fallen power cables to UK Power Networks by calling 105.