A WEATHER warning of very strong winds across Wales and the rest of the UK has been raised from yellow to amber due to Storm Ciara - and there could be a widespread disruption to rail services.

Flying debris - which could lead to injuries or danger to life, and damage buildings - is among the potential problems highlighted in the Met Office amber warning notice.

Longer journey times and travel service cancellations, road and bridge closures, and power cuts that could also affect mobile phone coverage, are also included.

Winds are expected to remain above 40mph for much of today, while some areas of Wales could see gusts of up to 85mph.

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Gusts of 50-60mph and possible higher are forecast for Gwent from 10am until mid-afternoon.

And the wind will be accompanied by heavy rain - a yellow warning is also in place for rain across much of Wales, including eastern-Monmouthshire, Newport, Torfaen, Caerphilly and Blaenau Gwent until 6pm.

Anyone venturing out today and needing to use public transport is strongly advised to check timetables.

“We’re expecting very stormy conditions, high tides and winds that have the potential to uproot trees and damage infrastructure," said Martyn Brennan, Transport for Wales operations director.

“The safety of our customers and colleagues is our absolute priority so there will be speed restrictions across our network, while some lines will not have any services at all.

“We are working closely together to minimise any disruption and will do all we can to keep our customers moving and informed.”