Heavy winds are set to hit Dorset this week, and there are warnings over potential power cuts and flying debris which could cause "danger to life." 

The Met Office has issued a yellow 'be aware' weather warning for very strong winds which will affect parts of the UK during Wednesday night and into Thursday.

Forecasters say there is potential for gusts of 60 to 70mph widely, and a small chance of winds reaching 80 mph in some areas.

A Met Office spokesman said: "The strongest winds are expected to transfer eastwards across the warning area before clearing by early afternoon.

"Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage. Injuries and danger to life from flying debris are possible, along with some damage to buildings.

"In addition, large waves are expected to affect some western coasts with beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties."

People are being warned to expected longer journey times and cancellations as road, rail and ferry services may be affected. It is also possible that some bridges may close.

The warning is in place from 9pm on Wednesday to 1pm on Thursday.

The Met Office's chief forecaster said: "The location of the most damaging winds is currently uncertain, although parts of northern and eastern England along with southern Scotland currently look more at risk.

"Along with the strong winds a spell of heavy rain can also be expected."