Hurricane Kirk: UK issued warning as fresh weather maps show storm hitting France

The remains of are set to pass over the UK this week, triggering a significant downturn in weather which is likely to bring powerful winds and increased risk of flooding from torrential rain.

The major , which generated winds of up to 145mph, has weakened as it has moved across the cooler waters of the North Atlantic Ocean.

Despite the slight decrease in strength, the remnants of Hurricane Kirk are still likely to bring blustery conditions to the UK, particularly the south which will be closest to the passing storm.

Current weather maps indicate Hurricane Kirk will sweep across the bottom of the country, renewing the in areas already battered by heavy downpours in recent weeks.

The has warned the UK could face “an unsettled period” as the storm delivers “disruptive weather” this week.

Deputy Chief Meteorologist at the Chris Bulmer said: “Kirk over the North Atlantic will lose its status as a hurricane early [this] week before being swept towards northwest Europe.”

“The resulting low pressure system will still have the potential to bring disruptive rain and winds to some areas, including parts of the UK.”

He added: “Across the UK, parts of England and Wales look to have the greatest risk of heavy rain and strong winds during Wednesday and Thursday.”

As the storm approaches, the will keep the need for weather warnings “under review” until a clearer path of Hurricane Kirk’s movement can be established.

In England, there are currently four flood warnings in place and a further 24 flood alerts, meaning flooding remains possible.

The flood warnings in effect span across the south and south east of the country, also the areas most likely to face the brunt of Hurricane Kirk.

Flooding across the UK in recent weeks has already caused severe travel disruption and, in some cases, completely cut access to smaller towns and villages across the country.