HERE it comes.

Storm Dennis is set to hit the Winchester area this morning and the authorities say they are prepared.

Highways England is advising drivers to take care and be prepared as Storm Dennis brings very strong winds and heavy rain across Hampshire.

Gusts of 60-70mph are expected around coasts and routes in the south and west. Heavy and prolonged rainfall could occur in the region.

Motorists, particularly those driving high-sided HGVs, caravans and motorcycles, are advised to check the weather and driving conditions before setting out on journeys and pay particular attention to exposed locations such as coastal and high lying areas and bridges which could be affected by the high winds.

Highways England’s Head of Road Safety, Richard Leonard, said: “We’re encouraging drivers to check the latest weather and travel conditions before setting off on journeys and consider if their journey is necessary and can be delayed until conditions improve. If you do intend to travel, then plan your journey and take extra care, allowing more time for your journey.

“In heavy rain, drivers should keep well back from the vehicle in front, gradually ease off the accelerator if the steering becomes unresponsive, and slow down if the rain and spray from vehicles makes it difficult to see and be seen. In high winds, there’s a particular risk to lorries, caravans and motorbikes so we’d advise drivers of these vehicles to slow down.

“Drivers of other vehicles should be aware of sudden gusts of wind which can affect handling and braking, and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, and motorbikes plenty of space. In the event of persistent high winds we may need to close bridges to traffic for a period, so please be alert for warnings of closures and follow signed diversion routes.”

Meanwhile, the Environment Agency is warning communities that persistent heavy rain could lead to an increased risk of flooding across south-east England over the next few days.

In the Winchester area the agency is warning of problems in the Hursley and Romsey areas.

The forecast heavy rain could cause surface water flooding in local communities, and see a rise in river levels, and travel disruption as roads and rail lines may be affected.

Following on from Storm Ciara, Hampshire’s Highways teams will once again be on standby round the clock.

Clr Rob Humby, executive member for environment and transport at Hampshire County Council, said: “With the forecast for heavy rain and strong winds again this weekend, we have extra equipment to deal with flooding, tree crews and emergency gangs ready to keep Hampshire’s roads clear of surface water and fallen trees. Last weekend, we received over 1,300 reports of issues on the highway caused by the storm and had teams clearing the roads into the early hours of Monday morning.

“While all main routes were cleared by Monday morning rush hour, our tree crews were still dealing with trees and flooding issues on some smaller, rural roads on Monday and Tuesday, and have continued to clear up debris through the week.

“The forecast is for heavy rain this coming Saturday. With the ground already saturated, trees are vulnerable to strong winds and I would urge everyone to think if their journey is really necessary and to check travel conditions before setting out this weekend.”