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Train evacuated between Swanley and Longfield after hitting tree as Storm Ciara continues to batter Kent

A train is being evacuated after it came to a halt on the line after hitting a tree.

The incident happened between Swanley and Longfield this afternoon.

The train came to a halt after hitting a tree which had fallen on the line. Picture: Network Rail
The train came to a halt after hitting a tree which had fallen on the line. Picture: Network Rail

Network Rail said it is working with Southeastern to get passengers of the train.

And Southeastern is sending another train to the line so people can be transferred onto the new service.

It is not known how long the line will be blocked, but firefighters and British Transport Police have also been sent to the scene to help get people off the train.

Network Rail staff are now also on site and are assessing the damage to the train.

Staff tweeted about the incident and thanked everyone on board for staying cool while they dealt with the incident.

The train came to a standstill. Picture: Shane Owen
The train came to a standstill. Picture: Shane Owen

Rail operator Southeastern had warned of a revised timetable and disruption which is likely to last throughout today, and potentially into tomorrow morning, as a result of the extreme weather caused by Storm Ciara

But this incident has now led to further cancellations to services.

Two bridges - the QEII Bridge at the Dartford Crossing and the Sheppey Crossing - have closed and no ferries are leaving the Port of Dover.

But despite the strong warnings, some people are still braving the weather to walk along the beach, as our pictures show, which has sparked a stern response from experts.

Simon Partridge, from the Met Office, said: "If you're tempted to get down to the coast just don't get too close."

For all the forecasts, warnings and weather related news, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Dartford

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