Yesterday's severe weather warning for strong winds across Cornwall and the south west has now been upgraded by the Met Office.

The organisation had originally said that Storm Evert would bring a spell of windy weather with coastal gales into southern parts of England and Wales during Thursday evening onwards through the night into Friday morning, with winds between 45 and 55mph.

However, the yellow weather warning has now been upgraded to an amber warning, with winds potentially reaching between 55mph and 75mph in the most exposed coastal areas.

A spokesperson for the Met Office said: "Storm Evert will bring a swathe of very strong winds with coastal gales and severe gales into the Isles of Scilly later Thursday evening, these very strong winds then spreading into Cornwall during the early hours of Friday.

"Gusts of 55 to 65 mph are likely in coastal areas with a chance of gusts briefly reaching 75 mph in the most exposed coastal spots in Cornwall.

"Winds then ease Friday morning.

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"Showery rain will accompany these high winds at times, some of this rain heavy."

The Met Officer has also said that residents in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly should expect: "Probably some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs.

"There may also be some fallen trees and damage to temporary outdoor structures is probable.

"Longer journey times and cancellations likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected.

"Some roads and bridges likely to close.

"There is a good chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage.

"Flying debris is likely and could lead to injuries or danger to life.

"Injuries and danger to life is likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties."

The Packet will continue to provide updates as and when more information becomes available.