Warnings have been issued ahead of Storm Freya hitting the UK on Sunday.

Shropshire is expected to be in the centre of the storm, which will come in at around 3pm before dispersing by 6am on Monday.

Strong winds are expected to cause travel disruption and potentially dangerous conditions, according to the Met Office.

It is in stark contrast the the unusually warm weather than the country has backed in over the last few days.

Whitchurch Herald: Storm Freya will hit the centre of the UK. Picture by the Met OfficeStorm Freya will hit the centre of the UK. Picture by the Met Office

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Jason Kelly, said gusts of up to 55 to 65mph are expected widely across England, Wales and southern Scotland, with gusts of 70 to 80mph likely around coastly areas, as well as Wales and north west England.

He continued: “This is a developing situation and the track of Freya’s strongest winds could change over the next few days, so we are advising people to keep an eye on the latest forecast and warnings from the Met Office."

The Met Office has also warned there could be danger to life some flying debris including damage to buildings and trees, travel services being affected, roads and bridges may close, and powercuts that could also impact mobile phone coverage.

Highways England’s Head of Road Safety, Richard Leonard, said: “We’re encouraging drivers to check the latest weather and travel conditions before setting off on journeys and consider if their journey is necessary and can be delayed until conditions improve.

"If you do intend to travel, then plan your journey and take extra care, allowing more time for your journey."n routes.”

Looking ahead to next week, Mr Kelly, added: “As Storm Freya moves into the North Sea on Monday so too will the strongest winds. The rest of the week will be largely unsettled with further spells of wet and windy weather, but some fair weather and sunshine in places too.”