A red weather warning is in place across Bournemouth and Dorset this morning as Storm Eunice brings a “danger to life”.

The Met Office is warning the storm will result in flying debris, damage to buildings and homes, uprooted trees, and travel chaos.

Power cuts are also likely, as well as large waves in coastal areas.

A spokesman said: “Extremely strong west to southwesterly winds will develop over southwest England and south Wales early on Friday.

“Widespread inland gusts of 70-80 mph are likely and up to around 90 mph near some coasts, with dangerous conditions on beaches and seafronts.

“Winds are expected to ease from the west during the late morning.”

Bournemouth weather forecast hour-by-hour for Storm Eunice

This is the Met Office forecast for Bournemouth today as Storm Eunice is set to hit:

9am – Overcast, winds of 29mph, gusts of 53mph

10am – Cloudy, winds of 34mph, gusts of 64mph

11am – Heavy rain, winds of 33mph, gusts of 64mph

Midday – Light showers with some sun, winds of 29mph, gusts of 57mph

1pm - Sunny, winds of 25mph, gusts of 49mph

2pm - Sunny, winds of 25 mph, gusts of 48mph

3pm - Sunny, winds of 26mph, gusts of 49mph

4pm - Light showers with some rain, winds of 26mph, gusts of 48mph

5pm - Sunny, winds of 22mph, gusts of 42mph

6pm - Clear skies, winds of 22mph, gusts of 41mph

7pm - Partially cloudy, winds of 20mph, gusts of 37mph

What is a red weather warning?

This is how the Met Office describes a red weather warning: “Dangerous weather is expected and, if you haven’t already done so, you should take action now to keep yourself and others safe from the impact of the severe weather.

“It is very likely that there will be a risk to life, with substantial disruption to travel, energy supplies and possibly widespread damage to property and infrastructure.

“You should avoid travelling, where possible, and follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities.”