A RED warning is in place for wind in Fordingbridge and Ringwood as Storm Eunice batters the UK today (Friday February 18).

The warning is covering large parts of Hampshire as well as parts of Dorset and southern Wiltshire. 

The Met Office says to expect flying debris resulting in danger to life; damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down; roads, bridges and railway lines closed, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights; and power cuts affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage.

The warning for extremely strong winds is in place from 10am until 3.30pm. 

Yesterday, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Local Resilience Forum declared the storm as a major incident due to the potential for severe disruption.

A number of schools have closed including The Burgate School in Fordingbridge and Ringwood School are closed today along with Fordingbridge Infant and Junior Schools and Ringwood Junior School.