More than 100 fallen trees are causing havoc across Redbridge blocking roads, crushing cars and even damaging some houses.
Hainault firefighters were called to a “precarious” tree leaning against a house in Mossford Green, Barkingside, shortly before 9am.
They also attended another toppled tree against a building in Clayhall Avenue, Clayhall, at 7.10am.
Ilford firefighters were called about 7am after a six by six metre square marquee was ripped up from a back garden in Kensington Gardens, Ilford and flew onto the roof knocking down the chimney stack.
About 20 firefighters attended to make the area safe with two specialist fire rescue units sent to the scene and two fire engines.
Martin Knight, watch manager, said: “It had blown up to roof level and was stuck between some houses and some trees. We were there to get it down.”Redbridge Council’s tree team are battling to recover more than 100 reported blown down overnight in storm St Jude.
One caused the Central Line to be closed between Leytonstone and Epping when it blocked the track near Osprey Close, South Woodford.
The following roads have been blocked: Danehurst Gardens, Mornington Road, Nadia Court, Outside Little Heath School, Castleview Gardens, A12 Moby Dick, Bressey Grove, Ashurst Drive, Worcester Crescent/King Avenue, Devonshire Road/Aldborough Road, Woodford Road/Millford Road, Kenwood Gardens, Woodlands Road and Rosedene Gardens.
All major parks in Redbridge have been closed while the council assesses damage to trees and clears debris.
The Central line through Woodford and Snaresbrook was closed earlier this morning and is now running with severe delays.
But according to the Met Office, Britain’s “biggest storm for five years” is only likely to subject Redbridge to north-easterly winds of about 20-25mph throughout the morning, with gusts of about 35mph.
The Met Office has issued an “amber warning” for wind in the area, meaning a “high impact” is moderately likely.
But despite last night’s warning of flood risks, the morning is now expected to remain dry, with no rain forecast until the afternoon.
A statement on the Met Office website reads: “The public should be prepared for the risk of falling trees as well as damage to buildings and other structures, bringing disruption to transport and power supplies.
“The public should also consider adjusting travel plans.”
Redbridge Council have advised council tenants to call its repairs hotline 0800 393994 if their homes are damaged.
Fallen trees can be reported to the council tree team on 020 8708 5756 or 020 8708 5417.
Greater Anglia trains were due to resume at 9am but will not run until “at least 12” on any part of the network.
What is the damage like where you are? Get in touch with pics or updates – call 020 8477 3821, or e-mail photos to newsdesk@ilfordrecorder.co.uk. Alternatively, tweet us at @ilfordrecorder.
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