Over the weekend wind gusts of 80 mph or higher are forecast in coastal areas and exposed locations.

The Met Office has issued several National Severe Weather Warnings for wind starting from Saturday for north-western areas, then covering the whole of the UK by Sunday.

Storm Ciara is expected to bring a range of impacts, including delays and cancellations to transport services, damage to power supplies and large coastal waves.

Frank Saunders, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office said: “An extremely strong jet stream will steer a succession of low-pressure systems towards the UK over the next week, starting with Storm Ciara this weekend. Our confidence in the forecast means we have been able to issue severe weather warnings well in advance, giving people time to prepare for potential impacts of the storm.”

Storm Clodagh batters West Kirby promenade
Storm Clodagh batters West Kirby promenade in 2016

Before Storm Ciara arrives, high pressure will bring largely fine conditions to most of the UK on Friday.

Chief Meteorologist Frank Saunders continued: “The Met Office will continue to monitor the development of Storm Ciara and other potentially impactful low-pressure systems through next week. Warnings will be issued and amended as appropriate so members of the public should keep up to date with the Met Office forecast via our website, app or by following us on social media.”

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