FREEZING temperatures followed by 60mph winds are forecast as the remnants of Hurricane Lorenzo passes over the UK.

The Met Office is warning of transport disruption and power cuts – but the North-East and North Yorkshire will be spared the worst of the weather that will affect Northern Ireland, South West England and Wales on Thursday and Friday.

It said the storm, which is due to hit Northern Ireland on Thursday, is expected to bring heavy rain and wind speeds of up to 60mph in coastal areas.

It comes as the latest Met Office figures show that UK rainfall was 27 per cent above average for September, with 122.4mm falling during the month, compared to the 96.4mm average.

The Met Office said Wednesday is forecast to be dry for most of the UK, with some showers in northern and eastern coastal areas.

But temperatures are due to drop to freezing in some parts of England overnight due to the arrival of "cool air" from the north, Met Office spokeswoman Nicola Maxey said.

"Overnight on Wednesday, because we will have had this long clear spell, we might see some rural frost and temperatures drop to freezing in central and eastern areas," Ms Maxey said. "However, this will be localised, it is not widespread."

Ms Maxey said Thursday is forecast to get off to a "bright start" for much of the UK, but added that cloud will begin to build up from the west as the storm arrives. The Met Office said rain is forecast for much of England and Wales on Friday.