Live Kent weather updates as boats struggle to cross Channel and fire service issues warning

Storm Ellen has arrived in Kent today (August 21).

High speed winds are sweeping across the county and the adverse weather is expected to last through to the evening.

The Met Office has a yellow weather warning for wind in place until 6pm.

Meanwhile, the RNLI issued a stark message that “people will die” if the storm warnings are ignored.

Forecasters have said it’s a storm “rollercoaster” as Ellen arrives in town with gales, downpours and 15ft waves.

Warnings have been issued for winds of up to 60mph and enormous tides.

Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gunderson said: “During the early hours of Friday, the wind will pick up more widely across much of England, with gusts of 45-50mph inland and 55-60mph around coasts and over hills.”

The Met Office says: “Strong winds on Friday are expected to lead to some travel disruption and perhaps some temporary power disruption.”

Follow our live updates below for the latest on the weather in Kent as Storm Ellen causes disruption.

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