FORECASTERS have issued a warning for Merseyside after gusts of wind of up to 65mph could be expected from ex-Hurricane Ophelia.

From 12pm to 11.55pm today (Monday) a spell of windy weather will have the ability to disrupt road, rail and ferry services in Wirral.

Power cuts may occur and has the potential to affect other services such as mobile phone coverage.

Tiles may be blown from roofs and damage could be made to buildings which could lead to injuries and danger to life.

Coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities may be affected by spray and/or large waves.

The chief forecaster said: "Very strong winds are forecast to affect most western and some central parts of the UK during Monday.

"These strong winds are forecast in association with the northward track of ex-Ophelia across or near to the west of the British Isles.

"Southerly winds are most likely to gust between 55 and 65 mph across much of the warning area with the potential for gusts of 80 mph in coastal areas, particularly on the eastern side of Northern Ireland.

"The very strong winds will probably extend to parts of northern England along with some southern and central parts of Scotland in the evening as winds veer more southwesterly across the whole warning area.

"Heavy rain is also possible in association with this system in parts of Northern Ireland and western Scotland."