Sussex was today braced for torrential rain and gale force winds as appalling weather swept the South.

Structural damage, rising river levels and atrocious conditions on the roads were forecast.

The storm was expected to hit the South West and make its way eastwards during the day.

People were being warned to be especially careful along coastal stretches as high winds whipped up huge waves.

River levels across Sussex were being carefully monitored by the Environment Agency amid fears of flooding.

Flood-prone areas such as Lewes, Uckfield, Robertsbridge, Hellingly, near Hailsham, and Chichester were of particular concern.

Although no flood watches were in place on Sussex rivers this morning, the Environment Agency said that could change quickly.

Spokesman Jo Hunt said: "We are keeping a close eye on things. The big problem will be the high wind.

"It could create bands of rainfall that could affect river levels. If we get a considerable amount of rain then flooding could become an issue.

"However, it all depends on the storm in the Channel at the moment.

"The bad weather is expected to continue throughout the week so today won't be the last of it."

She said this afternoon's high tide was of concern and that 20mm of rain had fallen in Sussex in the past 24 hours, a higher than average level.

Mrs Hunt said: "We'd ask people in coastal areas to use their common sense and be careful.

"If it looks dangerous then stay away."

East and West Sussex fire brigades along with Dover and Solent Coastguards reported no weather-related problems during the morning.

A fire service spokesman said: "We would urge people to drive extremely carefully and to ensure that their drains and guttering are clear because if they are blocked, flooding could occur."

A Sussex Ambulance NHS Trust spokesman urged people not to venture out unless absolutely necessary and for people who have to be outside to wrap up warmly.

Officials at Wakehurst Place, near Ardingly, decided not to open this morning following the earlier warning of extreme weather conditions.

A review was taking place at lunchtime on whether to reopen this afternoon.

Michael Dukes, of the PA Weather Centre, said today that a storm expected to hit southern England tonight could be worse than feared.

He said: "There will be severe gales over southern Britain.

"We could see gusts of 60-70mph across the South."