The Met Office has elevated its weather warning for the south west from amber to red as we are warned that Storm Eunice could be the worst storm to hit the UK in 30 years.

Flood warnings have been issued across the south west for tomorrow morning (Friday) as tidal surge is expected from the combination of 100mph winds and spring tides.

Amid concerns that it could be the worst storm to hit the UK for 30 years, Storm Eunice is predicted to peak in its intensity between 7am-12pm.

South West Farmer: The Windfinder prediction for 9am on Friday. Picture: WindfinderThe Windfinder prediction for 9am on Friday. Picture: Windfinder

Meanwhile the Environment Agency is warning south west coastal communities to prepare for flooding from the storm.

It predicts that Storm Eunice will cause a tidal surge along north coast of Devon, Cornwall and Somerset tomorrow.

The tidal surge is possible Friday morning, and the Environment Agency is urging people to take steps to protect themselves and their property from the risk of flooding.

Strong winds, large waves, coupled with the storm surge, are likely to cause wave-overtopping and flooding to exposed communities on the north coast during the high tide.

Residents are being urged to sign up to Environment Agency Flood Warning messages and to make sure they are prepared for flooding by following the ‘Prepare, Act, Survive’ guidance:

  • prepare a bag that includes medical and insurance documents
  • check the latest flood situation online
  • know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water
  • check your insurance to make sure you are covered for flood damage. If you rent your home, it is your responsibility to have insurance for your belongings.
  • if you are flooded, call 999 if in immediate danger and follow advice from emergency services.

Jim Flory, for the Environment Agency, said: "Strong winds from Storm Eunice could cause a storm surge and large waves, bringing a risk of flooding to homes and businesses along the north coast.

"We’re seeking to give early warning to communities to prepare.

"We will issue flood warnings if necessary and we have teams out on the ground taking action to reduce the impact of any possible flooding."

You can check your flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation at check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/, call  Floodline on 0345 988 1188 or follow @EnvAgencySW on Twitter for the latest flood updates.