Britain has been told to expect unseasonably wet and windy weather when the newly named Storm Francis reaches the west of England and Wales. Forecasters predicted a deep area of low pressure would enter the UK on Monday night into Tuesday, bringing gusts of 60-70mph. Up to 90mm (3.54in) of rain was also expected in places during a 36-hour weather window. The chief meteorologist at the Met Office, Andy Page, said: “There will be strong winds and heavy rain, especially in the west of the UK. A number of severe weather warnings have been issued and these can be updated regularly, so please keep up to date with the latest Met Office forecast.” The Met Office said the warning for wind would become active for 24 hours from 9am on 25 August, having initially been set to last until midday on Wednesday. It follows a similar period of unseasonable weather towards the end of last week, coinciding with the arrival of Storm Ellen, during which 15-year-old Nicola Williams was killed after falling into the River Rhymney in Llanrumney, Cardiff, and a 50-year-old holidaymaker died in the sea near Helston, west Cornwall, after getting into difficulties. Hannah Cloke, professor of hydrology at the University of Reading, said: “This unseasonably wet and windy weather, which comes in the wake of a dangerous heat wave and destructive thunderstorms, makes us very keen to understand the links between such unusual weather and changes to our climate. “It is too early to tell exactly what has driven this concoction of terrible August weather and scientists will be examining the links to climate change carefully. We do know that many aspects of our weather systems are changing, as are the treacherous wind and floods and heat that come with them. “We also know that we are not well enough prepared for the impacts of extreme weather and we must plan ahead and take action on this climate emergency if we are to avoid the worst of our possible futures.” A Met Office spokeswoman said: “Since 2015, when we started naming storms, we have never had to name a storm in August – and now we’ve had two in a few days. “There are a lot of people on holiday in the UK at the moment, going camping and on walking breaks, many in coastal locations where the winds are likely to be stronger, so it is worth checking on the Met Office website ahead of time.” Forecasters said such heavy wind was unusual for August and could disrupt transport and outdoor activities. The rain was expected to be heaviest in Northern Ireland and south-west Scotland, where 90mm could fall as the storm moves from west to east.