Gusts from Storm Darragh 'could reach 90mph'

The Met Office has issued a number of weather warnings

Warnings have been issued to people across Devon and Cornwall ahead of an incoming storm.

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for strong winds across all of the region from 15:00 GMT on Friday until early on Sunday.

An amber warning for strong winds for parts of Devon and Cornwall is in place from 03:00 to 21:00 on Saturday, with a rare red wind warning in place for parts of north Devon.

As Storm Darragh approaches the UK, people in Devon were sent an emergency alert from the government.

'Prepare in advance'

BBC South West weather presenter Dan Downs said the storm would bring "dangerous winds with a risk to life".

Downs said a red wind warning, which comes into force at 03:00 GMT on Saturday until 11:00 GMT, has been issued for coastal areas of north Devon.

He said gusts could reach up to 90mph and said the low pressure system would bring "strong winds for a prolonged amount of time".

"Be prepared for a danger to life due to flying debris and falling trees," he said.

Downs said there could be disruption to travel services, power cuts and damage to buildings.

"It is not safe to drive in these conditions," he said.

"If you can do so safely, check for loose items outside your home and secure them."

The government alert, which made a loud siren-like sound when it was delivered to devices, read: "Strong winds can cause flying debris, falling trees and large waves around coastal areas, all of which can present a danger to life.

"Stay indoors if you can. It is not safe to drive in these conditions."

Travel warning

A number of events are closed due to the weather, including Kingsbridge Celebrates Christmas, Falmouth's Festive Weekend, Plymouth's Winter Wonderland at Central Park, and live music at Torbay's Bay of Light and Cockington Christmas Caper.

Dale Hipkiss, duty manager at National Highways, said winds of up to 70mph (113kmh) were expected to hit some parts of the region, particularly coastal areas.

"If you're planning to drive over the next few days, particularly over the weekend, prepare in advance for the journey and take extra care on the roads," he said.

"If weather conditions become challenging, whether it be wind or rain, adjust your driving behaviour to manage the conditions as safely as possible."

'Take action now'

The Met Office has advised the public to "avoid travelling in an area" where a red weather warning is in place.

Devon County Council Highways said the Taw (A361) and Torridge (A39) bridges in north Devon would close from 00:00 ahead of the weather warnings.

Torbay Council activated its "severe weather emergency protocol", and warned people to stay away from the coast.

Recycling centres in Devon will also be closed, the county council said.

Rural insurer NFU Mutual warned the storm could pose a risk to individuals and "potentially wreak havoc" on properties and businesses.

Home insurance expert, Andrew Chalk, said: "We have some warning of Storm Darragh so our message to home and business owners is to take action now to prevent damage, if you are able to do so - during a storm is too late."