Strong winds of up to 70mph will batter most of the UK this weekend, with the Met Office warning of "unseasonable" conditions that could disrupt travel and damage temporary structures across the country.
A yellow weather warning for wind covers large parts of England, Wales and Northern Ireland from 6pm Saturday until 9pm Sunday, with Scotland under a separate alert for its southern regions. Forecasters expect gusts of 50-60mph inland, rising to 70mph on exposed coasts and higher ground.
The conditions are unusual for late May, with temperatures dropping to just 9-14°C alongside the strong winds. Travel disruption is likely across road, rail, air and ferry services, whilst coastal communities face the threat of large waves and spray.
Power cuts are possible, and the Met Office has specifically warned about damage to tents and marquees - a particular concern during the busy late spring events season. Coastal routes and seafronts are expected to bear the brunt of the conditions.
The warning encompasses most of England including the North West, North East, Yorkshire and Humber, the Midlands and southern regions. All of Wales falls within the alert zone, with particular concern for exposed areas, whilst Northern Ireland and southern Scotland face similar conditions under their respective warnings.
Residents are urged to secure loose garden furniture, check travel updates before journeys and remain alert for falling debris. The Met Office continues monitoring the system and will update warnings as conditions develop.