SOMERSET is being warned to brace for “strong winds” this evening and into tomorrow morning as Storm Goretti hits the south west.

The Met Office has issued a yellow alert for much of the county – alongside a red alert for parts of Devon and Cornwall – running until 8am on Friday (January 9) morning.

“Storm Goretti will bring a spell of strong winds later on Thursday and through Thursday night, which may lead to some disruption,” the warning said.

The Met Office said the weather could see “danger to life from flying debris”, alongside some damage to buildings, disruption to public transport and flights, as well as some roads and bridges being forced to close.

Power cuts and large waves in coastal areas could also be a danger.

“As Storm Goretti approaches, winds will strengthen through Thursday afternoon, with the strongest spell of winds during Thursday evening, with peak gusts of 50pmh to 60mph likely fairly widely, and 60mph to 70mph along exposed coasts and hills,” the Met Office forecast said.

“Winds will gradually ease from the west through the early hours of Friday,” it added.

People are being urged to “protect your property and people from injury”, checking for loose items outside your home and to “plan how you could secure them”.

It comes after a week of freezing temperatures across Somerset, though possible snow has yet to materialise in the county, except on higher ground, such as Exmoor.

READ MORE: Environment news from your Somerset Leveller