The first named storm of the season is due to arrive at the end of this week.

The Met Office has said Storm Austen hit will hit our shores on Friday with a yellow weather warning issued for high winds affecting the south west.

Bands of rain are forecast to move across the country bringing coastal gales which could be severe in the south west.

It could lead to travel disruption, power cuts, and potential injuries from falling debris, the Met Office has warned.

Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree said: “While the exact track and position of Storm Austen is still being determined, what’s clear is that we have an impactful period of weather on the way and the potential for disruption in places, which has resulted in the system being named.

“Peak gusts in excess of 70mph are possible on the most exposed coastal areas, while 50-60mph are likely more widely within the warning area. Weather warnings are under constant review and could be updated as confidence increases, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with the forecast in the coming days.”

Storm Austen will move from west to east through Friday, with winds generally diminishing later in the day.

Rain is an additional hazard, with 20-30mm in many places and higher totals possible over higher ground in the west and further north on Friday.