TRAINS from Kingston and across the SWR network are expected to be disrupted today as Storm Franklin blasts the UK.

A yellow weather warning for most of England has been issued by the Met Office and is in place until 1pm.

Gusts of over 40 miles per hour are expected in Kingston today, reducing to 30mph by this evening.

South Western Railways (SWR) has warned that the high winds from the storm will disrupt its services.

The service is advising passengers not to travel due to likely delays and short-notice cancellations across the network.

A statement by the company reads: "Following a series of further incidents caused by high winds on Sunday evening, SWR is urging customers not to travel on Monday.

"While we are working hard to run as many services as we safely can, strong winds and a 50mph speed restriction will cause delays and cancellations throughout the day.

"We also anticipate further line blockages due to fallen trees, with weather conditions likely to hamper efforts to help stranded customers.

"Regrettably we are also unable to guarantee replacement travel services will be provided during this challenging time."

The Thames Barrier is also due to close today for the 206th time, from 12.45 to 6.45pm, due to an expected storm surge.

Last Friday (18 February), Storm Eunice battered towns across the UK and led to a power outage in 1.4 million homes.

In nearby Teddington the storm brought down several massive trees - damaging buildings, street furniture and cars, though no people were injured.

What does the Met Office yellow weather warning mean?

What to expect when the warning is in place:

- Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen, along with trees/branches being brought down

- Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible

- Some roads and bridges may close

- Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage

- Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties

Follow this live-blog for updates on the storm as it hits