STORM Henk will batter parts of Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire this evening.

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for much of the area, predicting winds of up to 70mph.

Forecasters said the high winds could cause “disruption to travel and utilities”.

They warned:
* There is a good chance power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
* Probably some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
* Longer journey times and cancellations likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected
* Flying debris is likely and could lead to injuries or danger to life
* Some roads and bridges likely to close
* Injuries and danger to life is likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties

READ MORE: Weather warning issued for Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset

The area set to be affected was extended today (Tuesday), with some parts of the south west cut from the warning zone as winds are predicted to have peaked, the Met Office said.

Forecasters issued the warnings just weeks after the region was battered by heavy rain, which saw roads closed and rivers flood.