Tree crushes car as high winds batter London

By Hannah Neary, Local Democracy Reporter

The London Fire Brigade has been called to remove giant trees from roads and on top of at least one car as the capital has been battered by heavy winds.

The Met Office has issued a red weather warning (the highest level) to London for the first time.

Millions of people have been told to remain at home as the UK has been hit with one of the worst storms in decades.

Huge trees have been taken down by the harsh winds in Westminster this afternoon.

Photos posted on social media show a giant tree has fallen and crushed the roof of a car on Castellain Road, Maida Vale.

Another shows a tree snapped in half lying across a road in Sussex Gardens, Westminster.

A spokesperson for Westminster City council said: “We’re aware that there have been isolated incidents of trees being blown down. We’re working with the emergency services to clear roads and pavements as soon as possible”

Advice on Westminster City Council’s website says you should not try and remove a fallen tree yourself but report them to the council’s specialist team by calling 0207 641 2000.

It says: “Avoid walking too close to walls, buildings and trees as they could have been weakened.

“Be careful not to touch any electrical or telephone cables that have been blown down or are still hanging.”

For housing repairs, Westminster tenants should call: 0800 358 3783

Pictured top: A car is crushed by a tree in Maida Vale, Westminster (image: Compton Reeback)