THE Isle of Wight is preparing for the incoming Storm Ciara tomorrow.

Disruption to travel is likely due to the forecast of very strong winds — and both Wightlink and Red Funnel have already advised there may be cancellations.

Wightlink said: "As Storm Ciara approaches the UK, we are expecting extremely high winds over the weekend particularly on Sunday, which may lead to some disruption.

"We recommend you check our website before you travel."

Red Funnel said: "It is highly likely due to Storm Ciara that both our services will experience disruption/cancellations tomorrow (Sunday 9).

"We will be operating on a sailing by sailing basis, subject to cancellations at short notice and will provide updates throughout the day."

An amber weather warning has been issued for the Island by the Met Office.

The Met Office said we can expect the following:

Flying debris could lead to injuries or danger to life.

Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs expected.

Longer journey times and cancellations, as road, rail, air and ferry services affected.

Some roads and bridges closed.

Power cuts with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage.

Injuries and danger to life from large waves and beach material being thrown on to sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.

The importance of staying away from the sea has been issued by Sandown and Shanklin Independent Lifeboat.

A spokesperson said: "Please take care tomorrow near exposed areas such as beaches, piers, harbour walls and promenades.

"Keep dogs on a lead. If you see someone in distress, call 999 and ask for the coastguard."

The following is advice from the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service:

With a weather warning in place for strong winds, here are some tips to stay safe.

Before a storm arrives:

Secure any loose garden items, such as tools and chairs, to prevent them from being blown away.

Unplug all non-essential electrical devices to avoid damage from power surges caused by lightning strikes.

Park your car in a garage if possible, or move it away from buildings and trees.

If you have any vulnerable neighbours, don't forget to check with them to see if they need any help before and after a storm.

Keep up-to-date with the latest weather forecasts and warnings via The Met Office website and local radio, TV stations and other trusted news outlets.

During a storm:

Keep your doors, windows (and storm shutters, if you have them) closed.

Close your curtains to protect against breaking glass.

Only open internal doors when needed and close them behind you.

Don't try and repair any damage outside until the storm has passed.

After a storm has passed:

If your home has been damaged by the storm, contact your insurance company immediately.

Keep away from trees and outside walls, as they may have been damaged in the storm.

If you've lost power at night, use torches rather than candles for light to avoid a fire hazard.

UPDATED: Flood alert from Environment Agency

Flooding is possible. Be prepared. Sunday morning's tide at 10:51 is affected by Storm Ciara which brings Gale Force 8 South Westerly winds and large waves.

The weather increases tide table values by 0.29m. The total forecast tide is 4.63m Chart Datum (2.04 mAOD) at Cowes.

Tide levels are not overly high, but for one to two hours either side of high water, large waves will cause spray overtopping of sea defences across the exposed coast at Freshwater Bay, Sandown, Shanklin, Gurnard and Ryde.

This may cause minor impact flooding to esplanades, sea front car parks and affect some roads.

As Cowes is sheltered from waves, impacts, if any, will be minimal in this location. We do not expect property flooding.

At 11:37 on Monday‚ the tide will be much higher and we'll issue further advice. We continue to monitor the forecast. At high tide, avoid parking, walking or driving at exposed sea front locations. 

UPDATE 4pm: The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary will not open tomorrow, due to Storm Ciara.