Storm Isha to hit New Forest and Christchurch with winds up to 80mph

Storm Isha is set to hit the New Forest and Christchurch with strong winds and heavy rain this evening (Sunday) and into tomorrow.

The Met Office has issued warnings of amber for wind and yellow for rain from about 6pm today.

The weather agency said there would “probably” be damage to buildings, along with power cuts, cancellations for rail, air and ferry services, and “injury and danger to life” likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties. Roads and bridges are likely to close

A Met Office spokesperson said: “Very strong west or south-westerly winds will develop widely during Sunday evening, persisting overnight and into Monday morning.

“Gusts will frequently reach 50-60mph, perhaps 70mph at times in a few locations and, along exposed coastal stretches, 80mph is possible.

“Wind will slowly ease through Monday morning.”

The alerts are in place until 6am tomorrow