A "danger to life" weather warning for Kent has been upgraded to severe by the Met Office.

Storm Ciara is due to hit the county tomorrow, bringing winds of up to 80mph, which forecasters say are likely to damage buildings and close roads and bridges.

The Met Office earlier said: "Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto seafronts, coastal roads, and properties."

But it has now upgraded its yellow weather warning to amber, meaning there is not only potential risk to life but of damage to buildings.

Forecasters say the gale force winds will: "Probably damage buildings - such as tiles being blown off roofs.

"Longer journey times and cancellations are likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected.

"Some roads and bridges likely to close.

KMTV's earlier report on Storm Ciara

"Injuries and danger to life is likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties.

"There is a good chance that power cuts may occur."

The amber alert is in place from 9am on Sunday to 9pm.

People making journeys should drive with extra care, especially at exposed sections of the motorway, such as:

• A282 Dartford Crossing
• A249 Sheppey Crossing/KingsFerry Brdige
• M2 J2-J3 Medway Viaduct
• A2 Jubilee Way Close to Dover
• A20 coastbound near Dover

Highways England's head of road safety, Richard Leonard, said: "We’re encouraging drivers to check the latest weather and travel conditions before setting off on journeys and consider if their journey is necessary and can be delayed until conditions improve.

"If you do intend to travel, then plan your journey and take extra care, allowing more time for your journey.

"In high winds, there's a particular risk to lorries, caravans and motorbikes so we'd advise drivers of these vehicles to slow down.

"Drivers of other vehicles should be aware of sudden gusts of wind which can affect handling and braking, and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, and motorbikes plenty of space.

"In the event of persistent high winds we may need to close bridges to traffic for a period, so please be alert for warnings of closures and follow signed diversion routes."

Unladen curtain-sided vehicles are particularly vulnerable to windy conditions on high ground.

Mr Leonard added: "Curtains on empty high-sided vehicles can act as sails when closed, and when high winds arise, we advise HGV drivers to open their curtain-sided vehicles if they are empty."

Network Rail has announced a 50mph speed restriction will be in place on trains from 11am to 7pm on Sunday as a result of the potential danger from fallen trees and other debris on the tracks.

UK Power Networks says staff will be in place to respond to any weather-related emergencies.

Head of customer services and innovation, Ian Cameron, said: "We understand how difficult is to be without electricity, especially during cold weather, and will do our best to restore supplies quickly if they are affected.

"Keeping people safe and fixing power cuts is our priority, so if you see any damaged power lines our advice is to stay away, keep everyone clear and call us on 105.

"We provide free extra help to people living in vulnerable circumstances, who are on our Priority Services Register."

Details on eligibility and how to register can be found at www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk

Medway Council has advised rough sleepers emergency accommodation will be available to protect them from the storm.

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