A weather warning covering Preston and the surrounding areas has been upgraded as strong winds are expected to be more severe than first thought.

Storm Debi is about to roll into the city and Lancashire bringing gusts for inland areas of 60-65mph.

The Met Office had already issued a yellow weather warning for strong winds until 6pm on Monday (13 November) but has now moved this to an amber warning for the period between 10am and 4pm.

Weather forecasters are warning of flying debris and travel disruption from the strong winds.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “A spell of very strong westerly winds is expected to develop later Monday morning across northwest England in association with Storm Debi. Inland gusts of 60-65 mph are likely in places whilst along the coast gusts of 70-80 mph are expected. Winds will gradually ease into the evening.”

National Highways North West has a severe weather warning in place for the motorway network in the North West of England covering the M6, M61 and M55 with a warning of disruption and is urging high-sided vehicles to re-think travel plans.

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