Yellow weather warning for wind scheduled across the West Midlands

The new year will be off to a turbulent start across the West Midlands with weather warnings in place for wind on January 1.

Winds of up to 60mph are forecast across much of England and Wales all day on Wednesday, with gusts of 75mph likely around coastal areas and hills, according to the Met Office.

West Midlands Fire Service warns you to be careful commuting under the conditions.

Meanwhile, heavy rain and high winds are causing disruption in much of the country, with blizzards forecast in Scotland and widespread cancellation of New Year's Eve events.

A landslide and flooding have closed roads and rail lines in the Highlands.

Forecasters said delays to all types of transport are "likely" on New Year's Eve as strong winds persist and may reach speeds of up to 70mph in parts of England and Northern Ireland.

Met Office meteorologist Craig Snell said: "It will be a tricky couple of days and a wet and windy spell for many up into the new year.

"We're encouraging anyone who is planning to travel to keep up to date with the weather forecast and news from their local authorities."

First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.