HIGH winds are hitting St Helens and the region this morning.

The Met Office has put Merseyside on an amber warning alert.

Reisidents have been warned to expect stormy weather throughout the day and motorists are being urged to take care.

There are reduced speed limits on some parts of the motorway network.

A Met Office forecast for the north west read: "It will be very windy with severe gales, and rain spreading southwards, heavy at times.

"Clearer, colder conditions following from the north in the afternoon with sunny spells and occasional showers, turning wintry, especially over hills."