The Ashby area is already feeling the effects of Storm Francis today and weather warnings have been issued for the East Midlands.

And a 'danger to life' alert forms part of the Met Office warning which predicts 'wild' weather.

Heavy rain and strong winds are forecast all day - with wind gusts of around 40mph possible.

The Met Office says Storm Francis will bring some very strong winds leading to disruption to travel and power supplies along with potential damage to trees.

•Injuries and danger to life from flying debris are possible

•Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen

•Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible

•Some roads and bridges may close

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•Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage

The BBC weather forecast adds: Today, it will be wet and windy at first as the rain moves north-westwards, turning showery in the afternoon. Unseasonably windy, with strong south-westerly winds.

Tonight will be mainly cloudy with a few showers in the evening tapering to a few mist or drizzle patches overnight. It will become breezy.