A red weather warning has been issued by the Met Office for Somerset and other south-west parts of England ahead of Storm Eunice.

This means there is a "danger to life" as the winds could reach up to 90mph and launch debris through the air.

Heavy disruption is expected throughout Friday with Storm Eunice potentially causing travel problems on rail lines and roads.

In a statement, the Met Office said: "Extremely strong west to southwesterly winds will develop over southwest England and south Wales early on Friday.

"Widespread inland gusts of 70-80 mph are likely and up to around 90 mph near some coasts, with dangerous conditions on beaches and seafronts. Winds are expected to ease from the west during the late morning."

The storm will arrive in Somerset at around 3am in the morning and continue throughout most of the day.

What does a red weather warning mean?

On the Met Office website, a red weather warning is described as the following:

"Dangerous weather is expected and, if you haven’t already done so, you should take action now to keep yourself and others safe from the impact of the severe weather.

"It is very likely that there will be a risk to life, with substantial disruption to travel, energy supplies and possibly widespread damage to property and infrastructure.

"You should avoid travelling, where possible, and follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities."

What to expect from a red weather warning?

  • Flying debris resulting in danger to life
  • Damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down
  • Uprooted trees are likely
  • Roads, bridges and railway lines closed, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights
  • Power cuts affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage
  • Large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and homes, including flooding of some coastal properties