A weather warning set to come into force across the Wellington and West Somerset areas has been upgraded amid a risk of 'danger to life.'

The Met Office has upgraded a yellow warning for wind to an amber level warning across much of the Westcountry.

It comes as heavy wind and rain associated with Storm Ciaran is set to batter large parts of the country on Wednesday, November 1, and Thursday, November 2.

The upgraded warning means that winds could cause structural damage, and that flying debris could cause a risk to life, according to the Met Office.

In coastal areas residents have been warned to expect large waves and material from the beach being thrown up onto nearby roads and properties.

Commenting, the Met Office Chief Meteorologist Dan Suri, said “Tomorrow, ahead of Storm Ciarán, a squally cold front will move eastwards across southern and southeast England bringing bursts of heavy rain and coastal gusts of 60-70mph, mainly from Dorset eastwards.

“Wind and rain warnings associated with Storm Ciarán are in force from Wednesday night onwards into Friday, with further updates possible on Wednesday. These include amber warning for winds for southwestern parts of England and Wales Thursday early hours and morning and the far south and southeast of England Thursday daytime and early evening.

"Storm Ciarán is expected to bring very strong along southern coastal areas of England in particular where gusts of 70 to 80mph are possible, gusts perhaps exceeding 85 mph in the most exposed locations. Further inland, gusts could reach up to 50 or 60mph."

The amber warning for wind is expected to come into force at 3am on Thursday, November 2, before expiring at 11 am the same day while a yellow warning for rain remains in place until midnight on Thursday.

The heavy downpours also bring the threat of flooding to the area. Amy Shaw, National Network Manager at National Highways, said: “Gales and high winds can happen all year round, but are even more prevalent during the autumn and winter seasons, occuring most often during storms.

“It is important to plan ahead for your journey during Storm Ciaran, and if weather conditions become challenging, adjust your driving behaviour and take extra care.

"National Highways reminds motorists to keep TRIP in mind ahead of journeys at this time of year – Top-up: oil, water, screen wash; Rest: rest every two hours; Inspect: Inspect tyres and lights and Prepare: check your route and the weather forecast.”

For further guidance visit the Met Office website.