Dorset is set to be battered by strong wind and rain as Storm Ciara sweeps the UK.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning – meaning be aware.

The warning of strong winds is in place throughout Sunday with heavy rain also forecast.

A spokesman for the Met Office said: “Strong winds will be widespread and last throughout much of Sunday. Gusts of 50 to 60 mph are likely across many inland areas and around 70 mph in coastal areas. There is a small chance of even stronger winds across parts of Scotland, potentially 70 to 80 mph. However, it is currently very uncertain whether the wind will reach this strength here and when this will occur. A spell of heavy rain will also affect many regions for a time, making driving conditions particularly poor.”

The Met Office has warned residents of:

n Injuries and danger to life from flying debris are possible

n Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties

n Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen

n Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible

n Some roads and bridges may close

n Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage