THE west coast could face gusts of up to 70mph later this week as an area of low pressure is set to sweep over the UK.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind which runs from 9pm Wednesday until 3pm on Thursday and covers all of Wales and England.

Meteorologists warn that strong winds accompanied by heavy and blustery showers may bring disruption through power cuts and travel delays.

The warning says: "Strong and gusty winds are likely to develop on Wednesday evening and continue into Thursday across England and Wales.

“Gusts of 50-55 mph are possible inland, especially close to showers. Gusts may reach 60-70 mph on coasts and hills, especially in the west, before gradually easing on Thursday afternoon."

Chief Meteorologist Andy Page, added: “After the recent settled spell the weather will turn more unsettled this week with strong winds and rain.”

As the areas of low pressure move away from the UK through Thursday afternoon the winds will ease and the rain will turn more showery with spells of sunshine.

Blustery showers will continue through the weekend with the driest conditions in the east.

The Met Office does say however that there are early signs that the weather will settle down again by the middle of next week with the chance of high pressure once again becoming dominant.