Heavy rain and severe gale-force winds are set to strike much of Britain today as Storm Debi arrives, bringing with it travel chaos and power outages.
The Met Office issued an amber weather warning parts of north-west England. The alert is active from 10am until 4pm and covers coastal areas north of Liverpool up to Whitehaven.
Forecasters have warned strong and powerful winds could result in flying debris. Damage to buildings and structures is likely, and heavy items such as tiles blown from roofs may present a potential danger to life.
Roads and bridges are likely to close, meaning longer journey times and public transport.