UPDATE: The Met office have raised the alert to a rare red warning

Strong winds of up to 70mph brought by Storm Eunice could pose a danger to life on Friday, forecasters have warned.

The Met Office raised Reading's weather alert level to amber on Wednesday, stating that roofs will ‘likely’ be blown off and power lines brought down.

There is a good chance that power cuts, possibly prolonged, could occur and affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage.

Energy Networks Association Spokesman Ross Easton said: “It’s really important to stay safe when bad weather hits.

“If you come across fallen power lines or damage to the electricity network, stay well clear and call 105 for free to report it. If there is an immediate risk to life or someone is in danger, dial 999.”

Read more: Woman in 'life-threatening condition' after 'falling' from Reading IDR bridge

The Met Office warned there is a ‘good chance’ that that flying debris could result in a danger to life.

Roads, bridges and railway lines are likely to close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights, according to the forecaster.

Green Flag has predicted a spike in breakdowns across the country over the coming days.

Commercial director at Green Flag Mark Newberry said: “As a result of these weather conditions, we urge drivers to remain cautious and to carry out the relevant safety checks before setting off on their journeys.

Read more: ‘My baby stopped breathing and blood ran from his nose – I thought he was gone’

“It’s particularly important that people are as prepared as possible to withstand the high expected wind speeds and potential snow in some areas.”

The news comes after heavy rain and 80mph winds battered parts of the UK yesterday as Storm Dudley struck.

Day-to-day weather forecast in Reading

Today will be windy at first, but mainly dry with sunny spells before becoming cloudy for a while as scattered showers move east across the region, according to the Met Office.

Tonight will quickly become cloudy with outbreaks of rain spreading northeastwards overnight. Some of the rain may be heavy at times.

Heavy rain will clear on Friday morning followed by showers or longer spells of rain.

Winds are expected to quickly increase, becoming very strong and potentially disruptive due to Storm Eunice.

The weekend will remain unsettled with showers or longer spells of rain and often windy conditions, although Monday is likely to be largely dry.