Roy Stokes from the Environment Agency said it was "probably the most stupid thing you can do" to travel to the most exposed areas, where gusts of up to 90mph are expected.

In Cornwall, people have been spotted swimming in the sea despite warnings of likely risk to life.

Photos from New Brighton, in Merseyside, showed the Coastguard asking people to leave the water after they were spotted swimming.

A trio of men had ignored safety warnings and gone for a dip in the sea as Storm Eunice hit.

Live UK weather updates: forecasters issue red threat-to-life warnings and people told to 'stay at home'

After being spoken to by the Coastguard they got back into their cars and headed away.

Weather watchers and amateur photographers have been urged to avoid the coastline.

The Met Office has issued two red weather warnings, covering much of the south coast of England and Wales.

Large waves are expected and the prospect of beach material and debris being blown across the seafront poses a danger.

Mr Stokes told BBC Breakfast: "The worst possible thing you could do is go anywhere near these (coastal areas).

"I know people like to go and get photos and pictures, it's quite a dramatic scene, but they're far safer to watch it on the screen.

"It's probably the most stupid thing you can do."

He urged people to listen to advice "and act accordingly".

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The Maritime and Coastguard Agency added: "Please stay well back from breaking waves as you could easily end up in the sea."