HUNDREDS of households are without electricity as storms hit Somerset and the South West.

Western Power Distribution said it has "precautionary measures in place" with strong gusting winds potentially reaching gale force in more exposed areas.

A spokesman said: "Our network is currently operating as normal with minimal weather-related fault activity being experienced so far.

"Weather forecasts are still predicting a band of heavy rain to move across our regions bringing with it strong gusting winds potentially reaching gale force in more exposed areas.

"Please be assured that precautionary measures are in place - our control rooms and contact centres together with our network operational staff are ramped up and additional staff have been drafted in.

"We currently have fewer than 1,000 customers off supply with no protracted restorations expected.

"We will continue to monitor the situation closely."

If you need to report a problem, use the free 105 nationwide emergency telephone number.