High winds and heavy rain set to batter Devon

The Met Office has issued two severe weather warnings as strong winds and heavy rain set to batter Devon

Stormy conditions are expected to hit the region tonight, lasting well into tomorrow.

The Exeter-based agency's chief forecaster said: “A cold front will move east across western parts of the UK during Tuesday night and Wednesday, with an associated strong, moist southwesterly airflow. Rainfall accumulations through this period are expected to be widely 20-40mm, with 60mm or more over some higher ground.”

Wind speeds across exposed parts of the South West are expected to increase.  Gusts of 50-60 mph are likely, with some exposed areas seeing gusts approaching 70 mph.

The public are warned to be aware of possible travel disruption

The five day regional forecast is as follows:

Today:
A few showers, but mostly dry, with sunny spells for many. However, the cloud will be increasing from the west during the day, with rain reaching Cornwall by the evening. Winds strenghening, with gales likely around exposed coasts and hills. Maximum Temperature 12°C.

Tonight:
Cloud and outbreaks of rain will spread eastwards across all parts overnight. It will be a windy night, with gales in places, particularly around exposed coasts and hills. Minimum Temperature 10°C.

Wednesday:
It will be a wet and windy day, with rain continuing to spread eastwards. It will be very windy, with gales around exposed coasts and hills, easing later. Staying mild. Maximum Temperature 13°C.

Outlook for Thursday to Saturday:
Thursday will be brighter with a mixture of sunshine and heavy showers, becoming clear and cold overnight with a frost. Rain will spread east later on Friday and through Saturday.