GALE-FORCE winds are expected to batter the coastlines of Somerset in the next 24 hours, forecasters warn.

The weather system is the remains of Hurricane Gonzalo which has travelled across the Atlantic.

Although Somerset is not expected to bear the brunt of the worst of the storm, forecasters say gusts of up to 60 or 70mph can be expected.

Tonight (October 20) will see wet and windy conditions sweeping eastwards, the strongest winds are expected to occur after the rain clears and winds veer northwesterly through tomorrow morning.

Gusts exceeding 55 mph are likely inland, with 60 to 70 mph gusts in some exposed coastal areas in the west and possibly to around 80 mph around coasts in northern Scotland.

A Met Office spokesman said: "The public should be aware of the potential for disruption to travel and possible damage to trees.

"Difficult driving conditions will result, perhaps exacerbated by surface water and spray in places."

A chief forecaster at the Met Office added: "The strongest winds are expected on Tuesday as the low pressure clears eastwards; some uncertainty remains in peak windspeeds but there remains the potential for disruption to travel, especially as the strongest winds coincide with the morning rush hour in places. Fallen leaves impeding drainage increases the risk of surface water affecting roads, while some damage to trees is possible, given that many are still in full leaf."

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