MORE flood warnings were issued last night as power companies were told to make sure they were prepared for the next big storm heading for Britain.

Heavy rain and wind gusts of up to 60mph are expected to hit western areas today, prompting nearly 70 flood warnings - 15 in Scotland.

Scottish Environment and climate change Minister Paul Wheelhouse urged members of the public to remain vigilant to the latest weather and ­flooding warnings for Scotland.

His message comes ahead of Met Office warnings of the potential for severe gale force winds and a tidal surge around lunchtime today particularly around the Firth of Clyde, Solway Firth and Ayrshire.

UK Environment Secretary Owen ­Paterson, who chaired a meeting of the Government's Cobra emergencies committee, warned energy network companies to be prepared. His comments came after complaints that it took too long to restore electricity to thousands of homes left without power in the wake of previous severe weather.