UK weather: Storm Helene approaches with 70mph gusts

Parts of Britain could see wind gusts of up to 70mph this week, as Storm Helene hits the country.

Travel services are likely to be disrupted and some places could see trees uprooted by strong winds between 6pm Monday and 8am Tuesday, forecasters say.

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning - which means "be aware" - covering the north of England, Northern Ireland, the south west of Scotland and Lothian Borders, Strathclyde, Yorkshire and Humber, Wales and the south west of England.

"Winds are likely to gust into the 40s or low 50s mph quite widely across the warning area," it said.

"Meanwhile, in some Irish Sea coastal areas, most likely in Wales and northwest England, gusts to 55-65mph are likely, with possible isolated gusts in excess of 70mph in the most exposed places.

"High gusts in the 50s or low 60mph area are also possible over high ground in northern England during the early hours of Tuesday."

Image:Coastal areas could be affected by sea spray and large waves. File pic

The weather could create travel problems, including delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges.

There could also be power cuts for homes in the affected areas.

Large waves could hit coastal communities.

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