People were today warned to stay away from exposed parts of the Sussex coast as storm-force winds battered the county.

Police also urged motorists to take extra care in the hazardous conditions and drive with dipped headlights.

Gale-force winds whipped up the seas throwing shingle on to several coastal roads.

Gusts of up to Force 12, reaching speeds of 70mph, were recorded in some areas.

Bulldozers have already been brought into Selsey to try to stop rough seas and high tides from breaching flood defences at Medmerry.

Heavy rain expected throughout the day is expected to worsen conditions.

The Environment Agency said people should stay away from the coast and not be tempted to watch the huge waves.

The agency was also monitoring groundwater levels, which are already high in some areas.

They are not yet as high as last October when there was extensive flooding in East Sussex, with Lewes and The Ouse Valley, particularly badly hit.

Prolonged heavy rainfall could cause water levels to rise above ground level and more rain is expected during the week.

A spokesman for Sussex Police said: "Motorists should slow down in these conditions as there is a lot of surface spray. Drivers should also use dipped headlights."

The agency's advance flood warning service is on 0845 9881188.