A WEATHER warning is in place as Somerset is being warned to expect travel disruption and possible power cuts due to high winds.

The Met Office has a yellow weather warning in place until 3pm this afternoon (Wednesday), as Storm Gareth hits the south west.

Forecasters are warning of strong west to northwesterly winds which with 'some bus and train services affected, with some journeys taking longer, delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges, some short-term loss of power and other services possible and some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities affected by spray and/or large waves'.

READ MORE: Click here for a full weather forecast

A forecaster said: "A very windy start with gales around coasts and over the moors, though the winds should gradually ease through the day.

"A few sharp showers are likely but many places will stay dry with sunny spells. Maximum temperature 10C."

This evening would see showery rain to begin with, and temperatures dropping to around 4C.

"Turning cloudier this evening with a little showery rain," they added.

"Heavier and more persistent rain will spread eastwards though the second half of the night with strengthening winds."

Elsewhere, it has been confirmed the Cheltenham Festival will go ahead today.

It had been feared the event could be postponed due to high winds, but Simon Claisse, clerk of the Gloucestershire course, said conditions had improved.

"We're delighted that the weather conditions have changed from the initial forecasts and the prospect of higher wind speeds and gusts have receded," he said.

READ MORE: Cheltenham Festival: Day Two tips

"We're looking forward to a fantastic day's racing on the Old Course with the feature race the £400,000 Grade 1 Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase."