A STORMY start to 2025 is on the cards after a weather warning was issued for the south west.

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning of high winds which covers Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset, with winds of up to 75mph expected on the coast and in hilly areas, while gusts of around 60mph could hit more inland areas.

The warning will be in force from 9am on Wednesday (January 1) until 6am on Thursday (January 2).

The forecaster said people could expect:

• a small chance of longer journey times or cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected
• a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
• a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
• a small chance that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
• a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris
• a small chance that some roads and bridges could close

“A deep area of low pressure is expected to cross the UK from the west, bringing a spell of very strong winds,” the Met Office said.

“Gusts of 65-75mph are likely around coasts and hills, especially in the south and west, with 50-60mph gusts likely fairly widely inland.”

The weather warning comes in to force on January 1. Picture: Met Office