Forecasters warn people to "be prepared" as Storm Aileen to hit Rotherham

FORECASTERS have upgraded a weather warning as the first named storm of the season could bring gusts of up to 75mph overnight.

The Met Office has now issued an amber ‘be prepared’ warning, which is valid from midnight until 6am on Wednesday, with Storm Aileen expected to hit.

A spokesman said: “Damage to trees and perhaps buildings, as well as power cuts are expected.

“Flying debris and large coastal waves are possible, and these could lead to injuries.”

Highways England also issued safety advice and warned motorists to avoid “exposed sections of the road network”.

Richard Leonard, head of road user safety at Highways England, said: “We’re encouraging drivers to check the latest weather and travel conditions before setting off on journeys, with strong winds and heavy rain expected from Tuesday evening until Wednesday morning.

“In high winds, there’s a particular risk to lorries, caravans and motorbikes so we’d advise drivers of these vehicles to slow down and avoid using exposed sections of road if possible.”