The Met Office has issued three yellow weather warnings for strong winds and two for rain as gusts of up to 70mph are expected to hit three regions across the UK during Friday's morning rush hour.
The warnings cover Wales, parts of Scotland, and Northern Ireland, with forecasters predicting potential travel disruption and possible short-term power cuts.
Wind gusts of 45-55 mph are expected across the affected areas during the morning commute but warns "some parts of the warning area may see gusts of 70 mph for a time".
The warnings, issued around 9.30am on Wednesday, indicate a "brief spell of strong and gusty southerly winds" that will strike on Friday 21 between 8am-3pm.
Weather warnings in place across Britain
Met Office
Coastal regions are expected to face the most severe conditions, with some areas potentially experiencing even stronger gusts.
The weather system is set to affect different regions for varying durations, with some areas facing up to seven hours of challenging conditions.
In Wales and Scotland, the warnings will be in effect from 8am until 3pm, covering Strathclyde, Dumfries, Galloway, Lothian and Borders regions.
Northern Ireland's warning period is shorter, running from 6am until 10am on the same day.
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Gusts of up to 70mph are expected to hit during Friday's morning rush hour
PA
The Met Office stated: "Southerly winds will increase on Friday morning, with gusts of 50-60 mph likely for exposed coasts and hills of western Britain.
"Some parts of the warning area may see gusts of 70 mph for a time. Winds ease from the west during the afternoon."
To help Britons prepare, the national forecaster has advised: "Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.
"People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. Its easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
"If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea.
"Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."
Looking ahead, the Met Office has said the weekend is set to be wet but will also remain mild.
The Met Office also issued two yellow rain warnings which will both hit Scotland.
The first warning, which will last 12 hours, will strike Central Scotland and parts of Aberdeenshire while the second warning will impact Scottish Borders and Strathclyde.
The forecaster said: "Following a wet few days, further spells of heavy rain are expected through the course of Friday.
"High ground is most likely to see the highest rainfall totals, with 30-40 mm possible in the space of 6 hours or so, and close to 70 mm by the time rain eases Friday evening."
The outlook for Friday to Sunday reads: "Staying unsettled with further spells of wind and rain moving across the country.
"Wettest and windiest conditions will be in the north and west. Remaining mild or perhaps very mild."
