Tropical storm likely to hit Havering

A tropical storm that has been battering the Caribbean has a 60 per cent chance of hitting the south of England, the Met Office has warned.

The remains of hurricane Bertha, which has now weakened in to an Atlantic storm, will come steadily towards the UK during the next few days.

Forecasters now predict it is expected to pass over, or close to, the UK from early on Sunday after initially believing the UK was “likely” to stay out of its path.

While the south of England is most at risk, there is a 30 per cent chance the storm could pass across the north of France and just miss the UK or an even lower probability it could hit Wales and northern UK.

The Met Office’s chief forecaster, Eddy Carroll, said: “There is still considerable uncertainty surrounding this weekend’s weather, with the potential for heavy rainfall and strong coastal winds, along with large waves.

“However, there is a chance that the system may pass to the south of the country, or spread heavy rain even further north.

“Rain and strong winds may well bring disruption, especially in the south, and people should stay up to date with the latest Met Office warnings.”

The storm is moving away from the western side of the Atlantic, after hitting the Caribbean islands with gusts of more than 90 mph (145 kph), leaving thousands of homes without power.

• If the storm dies hit the borough, we’d love to see your pictures. Send them to newsdesk@romfordrecorder.co.uk