The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for Storm Austen set for Lancashire which will take effect on Friday (October 23rd) from 9am until 10pm.

From 10am, the storm is set to hit much of Lancashire, including parts of the Fylde coast, Preston, Ormskirk and Blackburn and Darwen.

A spell of strong winds touching gale force strength at times, are expected in these areas over the course of the day. This means that a short-term loss of power is possible, as well as some coastal routes being particularly affected from spray and large waves.

The Met Office warning states: "Whilst the winds across the warning area are not expected to be as strong as those further south and west, a spell of inland gales is possible with gusts around 45 to 55mph during Friday daytime. In combination with locally heavy rain and many trees still in full leaf, there is potential for some power outages and travel disruption."

Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It's easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.

Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

A second storm is also set to hit the area with Storm Boelo expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain on Sunday (October 25), with the current yellow weather warning in place from 6pm-9pm.

It will affect northern Lancashire, including Lancaster, Blackpool and parts of the Fylde.

Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area here: www.metoffice.gov.uk