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Selfie Warning As Storm Barney Strikes

Selfie Warning As Storm Barney Strikes

People have been warned not to take "selfies" in the bad weather, as Storm Barney sweeps across the UK.

The storm is currently moving across central Ireland, with a gust of 78mph being recorded in the county of Carlow.

Power cuts, fallen trees and diverted flights have all been reported on Twitter.

The wind is expected to pick up further over Wales and southern England later on Tuesday, which could affect flights from Gatwick and Heathrow airports.

Sky News Weather Producer Joanna Robinson said: "Named storm Barney will bring disruptive winds to southern Britain on Tuesday evening, but severe gales over Ireland will ease.

"Gusts up to 70mph are possible inland, especially for Wales and central England, with higher values likely on the coasts.

"The worst of the gales over southern Britain will be gone by around midnight and central parts will see showers clearing."

Natural Resources Wales told Sky News they are expecting "strong onshore winds and "large waves", particularly along the country's west coast.

Projects delivery manager Scott Squire said: "Due to the relatively low tidal levels at the moment we're only expecting moderate flood impacts, but advising people to be aware of the risk of large waves.

"We will be monitoring the situation and will be issuing flood alerts and warnings if necessary while our staff ensure flood defences are secure."

The storm has led to a warning by the Environment Agency and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) that people taking "storm selfies" are putting themselves at risk to capture dramatic moments.

David Walker, leisure safety manager at RoSPA, said: "We understand the temptation to view powerful tides and weather conditions, however, if you get caught up or swept out to sea in these events your life will be at risk very quickly and our rescue services will also be at great risk."

Barney is the second storm deemed strong enough to be given its own name after Abigail hit last week.

The storm is being caused by a series of low pressure systems from the Atlantic.

There is also a weather warning about heavy rain over the coming days in the north-west of England and Wales.