A YELLOW weather warning has been issued for large areas in the south west with strong winds set to affect parts of Somerset and Devon.

After a week of rain warnings and more than a month's worth of rain falling over just a few days, there is now a warning for high winds.

There will be a brief display of rain and forceful winds on Saturday but Sunday is expected to be when the wind becomes a danger. 

The warning states: "Winds will strengthen from west to east during Sunday with gusts of 50-55mph likely in places, especially near coasts and over/to the west of high ground, perhaps exceeding 60mph in the most exposed areas.

"This will be accompanied by outbreaks of rain, heavy at times, which could lead to some surface water and spray.

"Winds will gradually ease across Wales and inland parts of south west England through Sunday evening and night, but it may remain fairly windy along some coasts of southern and south western England during Sunday night."

The big areas in Somerset set to be affected by the wind gusts are Bridgwater, Taunton and Yeovil, which will endure up to 50mph of wind over the weekend.

Minehead in west Somerset will also be heavily affected with 47mph of wind gusts expected on Sunday.

Meteorologist Greg Dewhurst told the PA news agency: "There will continue to be localised flooding.

"A lot of these areas have been hit by rain in the past few weeks which means the ground is already saturated."

Mr Dewhurst said conditions were expected to "ease up" and become a bit drier through Friday, but added: "Rivers often take time to respond so we're expecting disruption to continue in central and southern parts throughout the morning.

"Those planning to travel on Friday should factor this into their journey times."