Storm Desmond rampages across the Atlantic towards Britain with 85mph gales and heavy rain

Storm Desmond has been named as the fourth storm of the season with severe gales forecast for the weekend 5th - 6th December 2015.

Incessant falls of heavy rain are forecast overnight and for all of Saturday as Storm Desmond approaches the country. Accumulations in excess of 70mm are expected, with greater totals on higher ground.

Desmond, the fourth storm to be named by the Met Office, can be seen brewing in the middle of the ocean and making its way to our shores.

It is set to hit Scotland this afternoon and spread south during the weekend.

Up to 100mm of rain - a month's worth - could fall in torrential downpours and more than 100 severe weather warnings are in place across the country.

Weather warnings are issued to alert people to take action to protect themselves and/or their properties. Parts of the northwest of the country will get a month’s rainfall over a 36-hour period with the arrival of storm Desmond this evening.

A Met Office spokesman warned of a "rough weekend ahead" and asked the public to be careful while shopping, driving or anything else over the next 48 hours.

The Road Safety Authority has advised drivers to check local and national forecasts and traffic updates before setting out. It has warned drivers to be aware of possible fallen trees and to avoid driving through flooded areas.

Formby was battered by torresntial rain last night - Thursday 3rd December when numerous roads in Formby were completely flooded.

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