A STORM will sweep the South Coast bringing heavy rain and strong winds.

Storm Francis will batter Southampton and the surrounding areas today and into tomorrow.

Experts are warning of injuries and danger to life in the form of flying debris, large waves and damage to buildings.

Daily Echo:

The Met Office says the storm will bring disruption to travel disruption and power supplies.

A yellow alert will be in force for Southampton, the New Forest, and the rest of the county until 9am on Wednesday.

Gusts of 55mph to 60mph are widely expected.

Meanwhile, on exposed coasts and hills winds could potentially reach up to 70mph.

The Met Office said: “Storm Francis will bring some very strong winds leading to disruption to travel and power supplies along with potential damage to trees.”

A spokesperson said: “A spell of very strong winds is likely to develop across the southwest of England and Wales later on Tuesday morning, before spreading east across other parts of England and Wales during the afternoon and evening, clearing into the North Sea on Wednesday morning.

“Gusts are likely to reach 55-60 mph for quite a few places, with exposed coasts and hills seeing gusts of around 70 mph. Whilst not exceptional, winds this strong are unusual for August and they will be accompanied by some heavy rain in places, with possible transport disruption and impacts on outdoor activities.”

The warning comes after Storm Ellen brought strong winds and heavy rain to the county on Friday