Amber alert issued as Storm Ciaran set to batter coastal areas
'Strong' winds are predicted across the south west and south coast
The South West could be hit with 'potentially damaging' winds as Storm Ciaran hits the UK.
The Met Office has issued amber weather warnings for the south west and the south coast on Thursday as Storm Ciaran approaches.
Clare Nasir, meteorologist from the Met Office, said: "We've got saturated ground, people still recovering from the flood damage and storm damage just two weeks ago. This storm is coming in from the south west.
"The key feature of this storm is wind damage but also a lot of rain. It's going to be with us for at least two and a half or three days and most people affected by this storm."
The forecaster warned very strong northwesterly winds could disrupt travel and cause structural damage while flying debris could be a danger to life.
Roads, bridges and railway lines may also close while trains and planes are at risk of delays.
The Met Office said there is also potential for large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.
Yellow warnings for wind and rain are already in place across parts of England, Scotland and Wales between Wednesday and Friday.