Brits have been warned to be on the lookout for "flying objects", as Storm Amy officially sweeps across the UK.

The storm, which has not been officially named by the Met Office, is forecast to whip up near-80mph winds in some parts of the country. The national weather service has issued a yellow weather warning for wind, covering all of England and Wales.

Trees could topple and smaller objects could be sent hurtling through the air due to the gusty conditions at the peak of the storm, warns a weather expert. They added that the strongest wind gusts should pass over the UK by late evening.

Speaking to the Mirror, British Weather Services meteorologist Jim Dale said: "This 'storm' has not officially been named, but it's a very close call, and it's in for the rest of today. There could be almost 80mph gust at the Needles, Isle of Wight, with 50 to +60mph at other exposed sites.

"Winds could reach 40-50mph widespread across the UK. Some structural damage is inevitable, combined with some localised flooding in western seas, particularly."

"There's low centre tracking across Scotland where winds are much lighter. People need to be aware of flying objects and trees in leaf. The winds should ease off overnight."

The storm made landfall in the UK around 10pm last night, battering the south-west of England and Wales. Near 70mph winds blew in from the Irish Sea, with North Wales and Merseyside bearing the brunt of the storm just before 11am today.

The majority of England and Wales was predicted to face 50 to 60mph winds from around 4pm. The low pressure system was anticipated to move into the North Sea shortly after 8pm.

Meanwhile, thunderstorms were expected to batter the north of England later in the afternoon. Morecambe, Fleetwood, Blackpool and Lancaster were predicted to bear the brunt of the thunder and lightning, with 10mm of rain anticipated within just three hours.

Showers were still predicted across the UK throughout the day - especially in northern Scotland, Northern Ireland, and western England.

London and the Southeast of England might escape any rainfall, though light showers weren't dismissed.

The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for wind during the storm, running from 8pm last night until 6pm today. It cautioned that travel disruption was probable, and large waves could batter coastal areas.

The weather warning stated: "Strong west or southwesterly winds will arrive across coastal areas of southwest England and Wales during Sunday evening, then develop more widely inland during Monday morning. Gusts of 45-55mph are expected widely inland, with gusts of 60-70mph possible at times along exposed coasts and hills.

"Winds will only slowly ease from the west later in the afternoon and into Monday evening. If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."

Storm Amy hits UK with 80mph winds as 'flying objects' and yellow alert issued for England and Wales - Daily Star