Strong winds warning issued for north Wales

A yellow weather warning for wind and heavy rain has been issued across north Wales.

The Met Office warning will come into force from 05:00 GMT on Thursday until 20:00.

It covers Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Anglesey and Wrexham.

Residents should expect delays to road, rail, air and ferry travel and some short term loss of power and other services is possible, the weather service warned.

Gusts of 50-55 mph (80-88km/h) are widely expected, with some coastal locations and areas downwind of high ground potentially seeing gusts of 60mph (96 km/h) or even 70mph (112 km/h).

Seafronts and coastal communities are likely to be affected by spray and/or large waves and walkers are advised to take care when walking by the coast or cliffs, keeping dogs on a lead.

The Met Office said it expected winds to ease from the north throughout the day and advised checking road conditions before driving, amending travel plans where necessary.

Torches, batteries, mobile phone power packs and other essential items should be gathered in anticipation of power cuts, it added.