HEAVY rain and storm force winds are forecast for tonight in North Yorkshire.

Winds are expected to strengthen through this evening and peak at about midnight, and could reach gale force, between 39 and 45mph.

Tomorrow afternoon, a band of heavy rain is expected from the south west, and possibly some high winds in the south of the region.

Forecasters said storm force 10 winds were possible along the southern coast and up to two inches (50mm) of rain could fall in Wales, the south west and the southern coast.