For the South and Midlands, the Met Office has issued a yellow weather advisory for strong winds.
Drivers were urged to watch out for falling trees and to expect possible traffic bottlenecks as tall trucks had to move slowly over bridges and other exposed parts of the road.
Between 10am and 6pm on Monday, forecasters warned of “widespread” gale-force winds across the Black Country, East Anglia, Sussex, and Devon.
Coastal and hilly areas are expected to suffer winds of up to 65mph, strong enough to damage roofs and uproot smaller trees.
The Severn Bridge crossing linking England and Wales was closed in both directions on Monday morning, while densely wooded areas such as London’s Bushy Park have been deemed too dangerous for visitors.
Forecasters said short-term power cuts as well as delays to rail, air and ferry transport should also be expected.
Yellow warnings for snow and ice were already in place for higher parts of Scotland and will be expanded to cover much of the UK later in the day.
Yellow weather warning for wind issued.
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By 5pm, the rest of Scotland, most of northern Ireland, northern England and northern Wales are due to expect rain, sleet and snow.
Rail passengers and drivers were told delays are ‘likely’ and that ungritted roads will be hazardous due to ice patches.
Flooding is also expected on the River Nene near Peterborough, the Ouse near Bedford, the Vyrnwy in Shropshire and West Bay Habour in Dorset.
The worst of the wind is forecast to end by 6pm, while icy conditions will largely continue until 10am on Tuesday.
While the wind warning is in place, forecasters urged people to avoid unnecessary journeys, drive slowly, secure loose items outside and avoid walking close to trees and structures.