Storm Ciara: 80mph winds and heavy rain hits the Midlands

Storm Ciara has arrived in the Midlands, bringing gales of up to 80mph and heavy rain.

A severe weather warning, covering the East and West Midlands, came into force at 8.00am and will remain in place until 9.00pm.

More than half of all flights to and from Birmingham Airport have been cancelled or delayed, with a number of flights diverted to land in Manchester.

Pictures from Snapper SK.

There's major travel disruption across the region, with fallen trees blocking roads and rail lines, bus route diversions and a number of trains being cancelled.

Tourist attractions including Drayton Manor, Twycross Zoo, Black Country Museum and Dudley Zoo have been closed due to the adverse weather conditions.

Trains between Nottingham and Grantham, and Derby and Crewe, are cancelled due to a tree fallen on the line.

Services between Coventry and Leamington Spa are also cancelled due to a fallen tree blocking the route.

Flooding on the West Coast Mainline means there are no services running north of Preston on the West Coast Mainline.

Direct services from Coventry to Scotland will now terminate at Preston.

A 50mph speed limit is in force across railways, meaning journeys will take longer.

Power cuts have been reported in Telford, Shrewsbury, Nottingham and Leicester.

Here's what to expect today from the amber weather warning:

• Flying debris which could lead to injuries or danger to life

• Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs

• Longer journey times and cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected

• Some roads and bridges will likely be closed

• Power cuts with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage

• Injuries and danger to life from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties