WEATHER warnings are in place for the North West as Storm Gertrude sweeps in.

It is expected to bring further heavy rain and wind gusts of up to 90mph today.

A Met Office yellow warning of wind — meaning be aware severe weather is possible which could affect you — is in place until 6pm tomorrow for Greater Manchester and the surrounding areas.

An amber warning — meaning be prepared to change your plans and protect you, your family and community from the impacts of severe weather — of wind will be in place for Cumbria from 3am until 10am tomorrow.

There is a yellow warning of snow and ice in place from 9pm tomorrow until 3pm on Saturday for Cumbria.

A yellow warning of rain has been in place since 3pm today and runs until midday tomorrow for Blackburn with Darwen, Cumbria, Lancashire, Merseyside and Blackpool.

A succession of storms since December has seen widespread flooding and major disruption to travel, with the latest misery expected to continue through to the weekend.

Forecasters said: "West to south-westerly gales are expected to develop widely across Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of northern England early on Friday.

"Winds are expected to widely gust 60-70mph, possibly up to 80mph along exposed coasts and over hills.

"Be prepared for the likelihood of difficult driving conditions and disruption to travel, such as cancellation to ferry services and bridge closures."