More than 500 homes have been left without power as high winds and rain from Storm Bert sweep in.

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSE) is reporting that 515 homes are without power in Fawley, with the issue being reported shortly before 8am this morning.

The “unplanned fault” is said to be affecting several streets with engineers on site, hoping to resolve the problem by 12pm this afternoon.

READ MORE: Delays and closures as Storm Bert brings heavy rain and high winds

In a statement, a spokesperson for SSE said: “We’re aware of a power cut affecting 515 homes.

“This unplanned fault is affecting a large area, and it’s likely several streets are affected by the same power cut.

“We have had reports of damage to our network.

“When this happens, the power will automatically turn off to keep everyone safe.

“Our engineers know exactly where the problem is and are working hard to make the situation safe, repair the wire and get the power back on.”

They added: “These types of faults often require extensive work and specialist teams, such as tree cutters, which is why the restoration time seems so far away.

“If we can restore the power sooner, we promise we will do so.”