First named storm of the season set to bring damaging winds and huge waves to Newquay

The Met Office has named the first storm of the season, with Cornwall facing potentially damaging winds, heavy rain and huge waves on Friday.

A yellow weather warning for wind has been issued from midnight until midday on Friday, with forecasters warning of gusts reaching 50 to 60mph, and potentially 70mph or more in exposed coastal areas.

The strongest winds are expected to come from the west or north-west, although there remains some uncertainty over exactly where the worst conditions will develop.

Local forecasters at Kernow Weather Team (KWT) say Newquay could see the most unsettled weather expected between approximately 4am and 1pm on Friday.

Gusts of 40 to 60mph are possible across the area, while some exposed stretches of the Newquay coastline could see gusts reaching 70 to 80mph if the more severe forecasts materialise.

However, forecasters stress that these higher wind speeds are not guaranteed.

Periods of heavy rain are also expected, potentially making travelling conditions difficult during the morning commute.

Huge waves possible along Newquay coastline

The storm could also generate extremely rough seas, with offshore wave heights potentially reaching 15 to 25 feet around Newquay.

Exposed beaches including Fistral, Little Fistral, Towan, Great Western, Tolcarne, Lusty Glaze, Porth and Watergate Bay could experience particularly hazardous conditions.

The size of breaking waves will depend on the direction of the swell, tides and the level of shelter at individual beaches.

People are being urged to take particular care around cliff edges, harbour walls, promenades and exposed beaches, where large waves could reach much further inland than expected or overtop sea defences.

Anyone hoping to watch the storm is reminded that no photograph or video is worth putting their life at risk.

Residents urged to prepare

With the strongest winds currently forecast for the early hours of Friday, residents are being encouraged to secure loose outdoor items ahead of the storm.

Garden furniture, bins, plant pots, trampolines and other unsecured objects could become dangerous in strong gusts.

Winds are expected to remain blustery through Friday morning before gradually easing towards the afternoon.

However, the exact timing and severity of the conditions could change as the storm approaches.

Residents are advised to keep up to date with the latest Met Office warnings and local forecasts.

Radio Newquay will continue to provide updates as the forecast develops.