Storm Brian: Gale-force winds and heavy rain spark flash floods amid fear thousands could be left without power

Storm Brian has hit the UK and Ireland sparking flash floods amid fears gale-force winds and heavy rain could leave thousands without power.

The storm struck the western coast of Ireland late on Friday – just days after Storm Ophelia left three people dead - causing flooding on the south-west coast.

Flood preparations are underway across the UK and Ireland as winds of up to 80 mph hit parts of the Britain on Saturday.

Images showed huge waves crashing into the coast of Cornwall where flood barriers were put up on Friday.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for winds across a swathe of Britain, including Wales and southern England up to the Midlands, which will remain in place until midnight.

Chief forecaster Dan Suri said: "Gusts between 45 and 55 mph are expected widely within the warning area, with gusts of 60 to 70 mph along exposed coastal areas. These are expected to coincide with high tides, leading to locally dangerous conditions in coastal parts."

Ireland’s Met Office later said over 100 mph winds were set to hit southern and western coastal areas.

The Environment Agency has issued 42 flood alerts, as well as six flood warnings urging "immediate action".

National flood duty manager for the organisation Ben Lukey warned members of the public against posing for “dangerous” selfies during the hazardous conditions.

He said: "Environment Agency teams are on the ground, checking defences and taking precautionary action to close tidal gates and put up temporary barriers.

"We're working with the Met Office and local authorities and are ready to respond as necessary.

"We urge people to stay safe along the coast and warn against putting yourself in unnecessary danger by taking 'storm selfies' or driving through flood water - just 30cm is enough to move your car."

A yellow wind warning is in place for the rest of the Irish Republic.

A yellow rain warning covers counties Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo, Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick and Waterford.

In Galway city a temporary flood barrier was erected close the Spanish Arch landmark on Friday evening while sand bags were also being used to protect vulnerable properties.

Despite the defences deluges almost hit some houses on Saturday morning.

Limerick city appears to be one of the areas worst-hit, with the River Shannon having overflowed.

National Rail warned the stormy weather could impact on train services, with emergency speed restrictions imposed on most of the routes in Wales.

A spokesman said: "Fallen trees and other debris may temporarily block railway lines and damage overhead wires.

"Speed restrictions may be imposed in the worst affected areas for safety reasons, which may delay your journey."

Drivers were also urged to take extra care on the roads during high winds, as vehicle recovery and insurance firm The AA reminded motorists that surface spray, reduced visibility and potential flooding remained high risks.

Irish Electricity network operator ESB has warned that the latest burst of bad weather will hamper efforts to restore power to around 37,000 customers still without electricity in the wake of Monday's violent winds.

Storm Aileen, the first UK-named storm of the season, left thousands of homes without power last month.