A NEW weather warning has been issued for parts of Hampshire as the county braces for Storm Eowyn.

Winds could reach between 50 and 60mph, the Met Office has warned.

The warning for strong winds will be in force from 7am until 6pm on Thursday, January 23.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “A band of heavy rain will move from west to east across the area on Thursday, bringing a 4-5 hour spell of strong and gusty winds.

“Winds are expected to reach 50-60 mph over exposed coasts and hills. Winds, arriving across western areas during the morning will ease during the afternoon, whereas eastern areas will see winds peak during the afternoon.”

The warning will be in force for coastal parts of the New Forest, including Milford on Sea, Lymington and Lepe.

The Met Office says it’s likely some coastal routes, seafronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and/or large waves.

Bus and train journeys could also be affected with some short-term loss of power and other services possible.

Delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges are also likely.

This is the second warning the Met Office has issued for Storm Eowyn.

A yellow weather warning for wind is in place for the whole of Hampshire on Friday.