Forecasters fear gusts could be in excess of 60mph in the worst-affected areas, with a "good chance" of travel disruption and power cuts.

The Met Office has issued:

• An amber warning for wind in southwest Wales which lasts until 7pm

• An amber warning for wind in southwest England which lasts until 7pm

• A wider yellow warning for wind across southern parts of the UK which lasts until 8pm

Check whether you're affected here

Amber warnings indicate there is an increased likelihood of impacts from severe weather, and mean people should consider changing their plans and taking action to protect themselves and their property.

According to the Met Office, Storm Antoni will be "potentially disruptive" as it moves from west to east - and it is likely some roads and bridges will need to close.

Senior operational meteorologist at the Met Office, Rachel Ayers, said the conditions could be attributed to the jet stream - a fast-flowing current of air - bringing in a low-pressure system across the UK.

Ms Ayers said: "We're currently on the northern, cooler side of the jet... keeping the more settled weather further south."

However, she was more optimistic about the coming week, saying it could be warmer and more settled than what the UK has experienced over the past month.

Few parts of the UK will escape downpours, cloud and cold conditions - with low pressure persisting following the sixth-wettest July in history.

Chief meteorologist Steve Willington said: "Northern Ireland is likely to see some of the highest rainfall totals, with 40 to 60mm falling in some spots, but 20 to 30mm more widely.

"Away from the warning area many will still see a very wet day, especially in north Wales and north England."

Sky weather presenter Jo Wheeler said Northern Ireland had "already seen 30mm of rain since midnight, so over an inch of rainfall".

"Winds are picking up in the South West now, gusting over 40mph but these aren't the strongest winds," she added.

"By mid morning, the wind direction will switch from its current south/south-westerly direction to a north-westerly and it is then that we'll see the strongest gusts through the day."

The RAC has warned that Saturday is shaping up to be "the worst day on the roads of summer so far" - and to make matters worse, an estimated four million cars are set to embark on leisure trips this weekend.

Spokesman Rod Dennis said: "Conditions will be atrocious with a wholly unpleasant mix of very strong winds and locally intense rainfall.

"The best advice is to slow down significantly to stay safe and avoid exposed moorland and coastal routes until the storm passes."

He urged drivers towing caravans and trailers to take extra care, bikes and boxes on roofs should be secured properly, and motorists should keep an eye out for fallen trees.

Some outdoor events planned for this weekend have already been cancelled, with Dorset jazz festival Stompin' on the Quomps postponed for the first time in its 30-year history.

About 10,000 people were expected to attend, but organisers were concerned for the safety of both traders and spectators alike.

Antoni is the second storm to cross the UK in five days - and although temperatures are set to hit the mid-teens, it won't feel like it.

Winds are set to ease as the afternoon progresses, with rain clearing from eastern areas early on Sunday to leave a quieter day with sunshine and showers for most.