Weather warning as strong winds set to hit New Forest and Christchurch

RESIDENTS in the New Forest and Christchurch have been warned to batten down the hatches tomorrow (Tuesday).

The Met Office has issued a warning for high winds of 40-50mph battering the area, particularly in coastal and hilly spots.

The yellow alert warns of delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport, with possible damage to temporary outdoor structures.

Coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities may also be hit by spray and large waves.

The warning is in place from 1am to midday.

A Met Office spokesperson said: "An area of low pressure is expected to track across the far south and southeast of the UK from the south-west on Tuesday morning.

To the south and east of the low centre some unseasonably strong winds are expected, particularly around some coasts and hills. Here gusts may reach 40-50 mph which may lead to damage to temporary structures and transport disruption.

"The strong winds will be accompanied by some heavy showers or rain for a time, before gradually moving north-eastwards and easing from the south-west through Tuesday daytime."