Storm forecasters say "a strong event cannot be ruled out" in the UK - with an explosive cyclogenesis caused by a major drop in air pressure bringing the "risk of a few tornados".

Britain is set to be battered by winds of up to 90mph from Storm Eowyn as the Met Office warned of a danger to life in parts of the country over the next few days. Very strong winds are forecast to strike the north of England, south of Scotland and North Wales.

Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Mike Silverstone said: “The strongest gusts are likely to be felt across parts of Northern Ireland, northern England, north-western Wales and western Scotland, where exposed sites could get gusts in excess of 80mph, which has the potential to cause impacts for those in these areas.

WEATHER experts have issued a warning to residents as Storm Eowyn is set to sweep strong winds and rain across the UK. Essex Weather Centre is warning Storm Eowyn will bring wet and windy conditions to the area on Friday.