Warning for wind and heavy rain in Devon and Cornwall

Heavy rain and wind gusts up to 60mph (96.56 km/h) are forecast for the South West on Thursday with yellow weather warnings in place for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

The Met Office said the warning for wind would be in place from 04:00 BST to 18:00.

The warning for rain is in place from 00:00 until 21:00 in Devon and Cornwall as a potential named storm is predicted to affect the UK.

Wet and windy conditions may cause travel disruption, flooding, power cuts and damage to buildings within the alert areas, according to the Met Office.

Rainfall of 50 mm (1.97 inches) or more is expected in some areas, including North Devon and Cornwall.

The yellow alert for wind predicts gusts of up to 45mph (72.42 km/h) in the South West which could reach 60mph (96.56 km/h) along exposed coasts and headlands.

RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said: “Thursday is set to be a challenging day for drivers, with the evening commute likely to be a very wet and windy affair for many.

“We urge drivers to slow down according to the conditions, leaving a much bigger gap between themselves and the vehicle in front, and be wary of the buffeting effect of the wind when they pass high-sided vehicles.”

He added flooding was a “very real possibility” and urged drivers not to take risks by driving through standing water.

“It’s always better to turn around and find another route,” he said.

“Those taking to the roads on Friday should also be extra vigilant, as branches and other debris may have been blown on to roads.”