STORM Katie has ripped across the south today bringing down trees, knocking out power and causing flash floods.

A gust of 105mph was measured at the Needles on the Isle of Wight.

High winds brought down trees across the region with East Park Terrace in Southampton and the A35 through the New Forest near Hinton Admiral particularly affected.

There were also power cuts in parts of the Meon Valley and on the Isle of Wight.

A yellow 'be aware' warning' remains in place for today with "the potential for 70mph gusts around coasts exposed to the south and west”.

The weather warning is valid until 2pm, and is the second warning in two days.

It states: “Winds will strengthen markedly across southern England and through the Bristol Channel from the start of Monday, with the potential for 50-60 mph gusts inland and 70 mph gusts around coasts exposed to the south.

“Whilst there is a low likelihood of all areas seeing these strong gusts for a time southern coastal counties from Hampshire eastwards look most likely to see the strongest winds.

"These will then ease from the southwest during the morning, clearing from the east early in the afternoon. Additional hazards may include large waves around exposed coasts as well as a period of heavy rain.

"However, there is a continuing signal for a period of disruptive winds, perhaps now more focussed towards south eastern parts of England. This alert will be updated on Sunday in light of further information."

The Met Office is reminding people to be aware of potential disruption to travel and outdoor activities, as well as the possibility of fallen trees and temporary power cuts.

Those travelling back from breaks across the country are advised to be careful on the roads, and if possible delay their journeys until later this afternoon.

Met Office forecaster Marco Petagna said: ''There is likely to be a lot of surface spray on the roads, there could be localised flooding, and the winds could cause branches to come off the trees, and one or two tiles off the roof.

''On the south coast there could be quite large waves.

''People should keep tuned in to the forecast, and avoid the east coast, south coast and high grounds as well if possible. Allow extra time for your journey and if possible try and delay your journey as winds will tend to ease off throughout the day.''

Highways England has issued an amber warning for some of Hampshire's roads that could be particularly affected by gusts of wind - including the M27 between Hedge End and Locks Heath and the A27.

It advised high-sided vehicles, caravans, motorbikes and other vulnerable vehicles, to take extra care due to the increased risk of vehicles being blown over.

A spokesman said: "The winds will be accompanied by outbreaks of heavy rain and as a result driving conditions will be hazardous for all vehicles."