Grey cloud and rain spattered windows are today’s views from Quadrant House with the rest of the week set to offer more of the same.

Downpours have soaked south and west London and Surrey this morning but as the rain eases the winds are picking up.

Expect blustery conditions across the region with gales leaving broken umbrellas in their wake and strong gusts setting off the odd car alarm.

The good news is temperatures are milder with highs of 12 degrees.

Overnight the cloud and rain will clear meaning temperatures will dip to around six degrees for a time.

Increasing winds will arrive towards tomorrow morning and more gales are predicted, although there should be some bright, sunny intervals during the day Friday will also begin wet and windy but that should clear away towards the afternoon and a cool but sunny Saturday has been forecast.

A damp finish to the week as the rain looks set to return on Sunday.