A storm warning has been issued with strong winds expected for the Kent coast as the county is set to be battered by Storm Gerrit.

The yellow warning from the Met Office will be in place across the county from 3am to 6pm on Wednesday as gusts of up to 70mph are expected in some areas.

Coastal parts of the county could face winds of between 50mph and 60mph with the strongest winds on exposed headlands.

It is expected to cause disruption to journeys on the roads, railways, as well as to flights and ferries.

There is also a risk to high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges.

Met Office chief meteorologist Frank Saunders said: “Storm Gerrit will run towards the western UK on Wednesday and bring with it potential impacts for much of the UK.

“Winds across southern coastal areas of England will be strong, possibly peaking around 70mph on exposed coastlines, but more widely around 50-60 mph within the warning area.”

The Met Office alert states there is potential for some bus and train services to be affected, with some journeys taking longer as some head back to work following the Christmas weekend.

Furthermore, it is likely that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and/or large waves.

The storm will bring strong winds and heavy rain to many parts of the UK tomorrow, with wintry hazards also likely, forecasters warned.

People are being advised to check road conditions and bus and train timetables before setting off and to prepare for power cuts by digging out torches and batteries and a mobile phone power pack.

Walkers near cliffs and coasts are advised to know their route and keep dogs on a lead and in an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.