Storm Erik lashes across UK and Ireland, bringing wind gusts of up to 70mph

The Met Office issued two weather warnings on Friday: for strong winds across Northern Ireland and western Scotland until the evening, and for heavy rain in Scotland that will continue until Saturday afternoon. Gales of 70mph could affect exposed coasts of Northern Ireland on Friday morning, while heavy rain may lead to flooding in Scotland, the Met Office said. While a lull is expected in the fiercest winds on Friday evening, gusts will pick up again at about midnight, when a warning will cover Northern Ir