Gusts of up to 60mph and up to 160mm of rain are expected today as Storm Callum approaches the British Isles.

However, the biggest impacts are expected in Ireland as the storm is expected to steer to the west of Scotland avoiding direct contact with Britain.

Winds are expected to pick up at around 6:00am and continue for most of the day followed by heavy showers.

Throughout Friday and Saturday, parts of South Wales, covered by the Amber Weather Warning, could see rainfall totals of 40-80 mm widely with 120-160 mm likely over the high ground.

The Met Office has issued an Amber Weather Warning for rain for much of South Wales for both Friday and Saturday

There are also Yellow Weather Warnings in place for the rest of Wales and large parts of northern England and southern Scotland.

Areas covered by the Yellow warnings could see between 50 and 100mm on Friday and 50-80mm on Saturday.

Chief meteorologist Will Lang, said: “The rain is expected to be accompanied by strong winds, which when combined with high tides may lead to some coastal impacts due to large waves.

“In addition, leaves and twigs, brought down by the wind, could block drains and culverts, increasing the likelihood of flooding.”

A Yellow Met Office Weather Warning for wind is in place covering much of the western coastal areas of Scotland, Wales and the South West, as well as Northern Ireland.

Strong winds began arrive across Northern Ireland, south-west England and west Wales during Thursday night, spreading to Scotland this morning.

Through the day, winds are likely to ease across parts of Northern Ireland and south-west Scotland.

Amber Warning in South Wales

Sioned Warrell, Natural Resources Wales duty tactical manager, said: “The forecast rain could cause flooding this week, especially in south and west Wales, and we are urging people to prepare themselves.

“Making sure you know what the situation is like where you live is really important. You can check our website or call Floodline on 0345-988-1188 for any Flood Warnings that may be in place and keep an eye on weather reports and local news for details of any disruption in your area.

“Our teams are doing all they can to reduce the risk for communities, but if there is flooding we want to make sure people are doing all they can to keep themselves safe.”