THE Met Office has issued a warning for very strong winds that could cause damage and travel disruption over the bank holiday weekend.
Powerful winds of up to 90mph are forecast to hit parts of the UK which could cause major transport delays.
It said that transport delays were likely from 6pm on Saturday until midday Sunday for Scotland, Northern Ireland, North Wales and an area of northern England covering Liverpool to Newcastle.
In western Scotland, powerful winds of up to 90mph are expected with gusts of 70mph across the rest of the UK.
Winds of 50-60 mph will be possible widely, with 60-70 mph in more exposed locations.
There is also a possibility of power cuts, which could impact other services including mobile network coverage.
Exposed routes and bridges may close due to the risk they pose to high-sided vehicles, the Met Office reports.
Damage to buildings such as tiles blown from roofs could also occur.
The Met Office has also warned people to be careful on seafronts as large waves and beach material being thrown onto seafronts, coastal roads and properties could cause injuries.
In a statement on its website the office said: “Prepare to protect your property and people from injury.
“Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them.
“Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences.
“Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.”
Almost all of Northern Ireland and Scotland will be affected by the strong winds.
Areas in Wales affected by the weather warning include Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd and Isle of Anglesey.
In North West England, Blackburn with Darwen, Blackpool, Cheshire West and Chester, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside are affected.
In North East England, affected areas include Darlington, Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland.
