THE Met Office has upgraded to a rare amber warning for Storm Doris, which is set to hit tomorrow morning.

And Local weather expert Frank Hill says county residents should be carefully when out and about in the strong winds.

The Met Office initially put out a yellow warning for the region, predicting gusts of 50 to 60mph, but earlier today this was increased to an amber warning meaning speeds of 60 to 70 mph are likely - even possibly reaching 70 to 80 mph in hilly areas.

The Met Office says although the strongest winds are only likely to be for a short period, this is still enough time for damage to structures and interruptions to power supplies, and possible widespread disruption to travel networks.

Everyone is also being warned there is a "danger of injury" from flying debris throughout Thursday morning, while trees could be damaged and blown over.

As well as the winds, Storm Doris is expected to deliver heavy rain early on Thursday morning, although the wind and rain is forecast to clear during the afternoon.

Weatherman Mr Hill said: "We are expecting winds to get up to at least 50 mph, early Thursday morning through to lunchtime.

"At 50mph fences can be brought down and trees can fall.

"The advice is to be careful if you go out and ensure loose structures and objects are tied into position, and into the ground.

"The other thing about this is the winds bring with it a significant change in temperatures, from 12C down to as low as 2C on Friday."

However Mr Hill added this cold spell would not last, as temperatures are expected to again rise, to around 10C, during Saturday.

For more details, click on our weather section.