Sunday train services across North and West Wales have been cancelled on Sunday as Storm Ciara approaches.

Current forecasts indicate that strong winds could cause a tidal surge and large waves hitting the coast.

Combined with heavy rainfall which is likely to see rivers rise quickly, Natural Resources Wales expects to issue flood alerts and possibly warnings across the country from Saturday afternoon through to Monday.

The Met Office is predicting up to 100mm of rain to fall in some areas and winds of around 70mph in coastal areas.

With the worst of the conditions expected on Sunday, NRW advises people to keep a safe distance from coastal paths, promenades, piers, and from river banks.

Transport for Wales confirmed this afternoon that no trains will run on the Cambrian Line from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth and Machynlleth to Pwllheli on Sunday.

Trains between Shrewsbury and Birmingham International have also been cancelled.

Transport for Wales operations director Martyn Brennan and Chris Pearce, head of operations, Network Rail Wales and Borders, said: “We’re expecting very stormy conditions, high tides and winds that have the potential to uproot trees and damage infrastructure.

“The safety of our customers and colleagues is our absolute priority so there will be speed restrictions across our network, while some lines will not have any services at all.

“We are working closely together to minimise any disruption and will do all we can to keep our customers moving and informed.”

Emergency response workers from NRW are making preparations ahead of the storm, checking defences are in good working order and making sure any drainage grids and screens are clear, to reduce the risk to people and their homes.

Richard Preece, from Natural Resources Wales, said: “Our teams are keeping a close eye on forecasts and predicted river and sea levels this weekend, and if necessary, will issue flood warnings to registered properties in those areas at risk.

“We have already been speaking with our partners from the emergency services and the local authorities so they can put their plans into action.

“We are also warning people to avoid visiting the sea front due to the risk of being swept away by large waves or hit by wave and wind-blown debris.

“Flood water can also be extremely dangerous, and people should not attempt to walk or drive through it unless instructed by the emergency services.”

A spokesperson for the Met Office said: "The heaviest rain will be over high ground where 50-70mm is expected widely with perhaps up to 100mm in a few locations.

"Strong winds will be widespread and last throughout much of Sunday.

Gusts of 50 to 60mph are likely across many inland areas and around 70mph in coastal areas."

Information and updates are also available by calling Floodline on 0345 988 1188. People can also register for free flood warnings either by calling the Floodline number or at NRW’s website.

Ceredigion County Council is also advising people to keep a safe distance from coastal paths, promenades and river banks, adding that additional crews have been placed on standby to react to any calls of fallen trees and flooding.

A Gwynedd Council spokesperson said: “As a precautionary safety measure, the northern section of Barmouth promenade will be closed from 5pm on Saturday and we will be making sure that the sea gates and water boards at Barmouth, Borth y Gest and Aberdaron are closed.

“We would urge residents and motorists to keep up-to-date with the latest weather updates and travel advice over the weekend."Information about staying safe during stormy weather is also available on the Council website www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/emergency”