STORM Dudley is set to hit Derry and the North of Ireland later today, bringing heavy rain and very strong winds.
It is the first of two storms to hit the UK and Ireland this week, with Storm Eunice expected on Friday.
A series of warnings have been issued by the Met Office, with northern England and Scotland expected to be among the worst affected in the UK.
A yellow warning comes into force in the North of Irelan from 3 pom and will last until 6 am on Thursday.
An amber warning, the second highest level of warning, has also been issued for northern parts of counties Derry and Antrim and from 3pm to 11.59 pm on Wednesday.
The Met Office is warning of the potential for wind gusts inland of about 100km/h (60mph), with stronger gales along some exposed coasts and hills.
It said injuries and danger to life were likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto roads and sea fronts.
The organisation also warned of possible travel disruption, fallen trees, and power cuts.
Trains and ferry services are already being cancelled in Scotland as the country prepares for winds of up to 128 km/h (80mph).
In the Republic, Met Éireann has issued a yellow warning across the country for westerly winds associated with Storm Dudley.
The Irish meteorological service warned of winds reaching mean speeds of 50-65km/h (30-40mph) with damaging gusts of 80-110km/h (50-65mph), which will be stronger on exposed coasts and on high ground.
Storm Dudley will ease on Thursday to leave a brief calmer spell before Storm Eunice arrives on Friday.
For Storm Eunice, yellow warnings are in place across the North of Ireland, England, Wales, and southern parts of Scotland from 00:00 to 9 pm on Friday.
The precise track of the stormy system remains uncertain but strong winds and blustery showers are expected. Heavy rain is forecast as well as the potential for snow showers.
These are most likely over higher ground but there is the potential for some to fall to lower levels.
Tags: