Storm Eunice triggers warning for Dorset with 80mph gusts
The Met Office says big waves, flying debris and fallen trees could cause injuries
A wind warning has been issued for Dorset as Storm Eunice sweeps towards the UK.
Most of the country will see gales across Friday (18th February), with the yellow alert in force from midnight through until 9pm.
The Met Office says there will be extremely strong winds developing over the South West with gusts of 60-70mph and the small chance of those reaching up to 80mph.
We are told there could be the chance of injuries and 'danger to life' to occur from big waves, flying debris and fallen trees.
It is the second storm to be named this week.
Storm Dudley will hit northern parts of the UK first, across Wednesday afternoon, before Storm Eunice hits on Friday.
What to expect
There is a small chance that flying debris will result in a danger to life, with fallen trees, damage to buildings and homes, roofs blown off and power lines brought down
There is a small chance that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
Where damaging winds occur, there is a chance that long interruptions to power supplies and other services may occur
There is a small chance that roads, bridges and railway lines could close, with long delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights
A Met Office spokesperson said:
"Extremely strong winds may develop over southwest England early on Friday, before spreading north and east during the morning.
"It is not yet clear where within the warning area the strongest winds will be but gusts of 60-70 mph are possible over a reasonably large area with a small chance of a brief period of gusts reaching 80 mph even inland.
"Coastal winds are likely to be the strongest. In addition to the wind, there is the potential for a period of snow and perhaps blizzard conditions, most likely over northern England, parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and north Wales.
"However, this is very dependant on the track of the weather system and most places will see heavy rain instead.