Weather warning as New Forest and Christchurch set for strong winds and rain over Christmas weekend

THE New Forest and Christchurch are set to be battered by strong winds and downpours over the Christmas weekend.

The Met Office today (Wednesday) said gusts of 50-70mph were possible, with hilly and coastal areas expecting up to 80mph, as strong south-westerly winds sweep south-eastwards from northern England and southern Scotland on Boxing Day and into Sunday morning.

The Met Office’s yellow weather warning for wind also states southern and western areas will be hit by “a period of heavy, squally rain”.

Road, rail, air and ferry services could be affected, with the possibility of longer journey times or cancellations.

Large waves and beach material thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties could lead to injuries and danger to life, the warning continued.

There could also be damage to buildings, such as tiles being blown from roofs.