A WEATHER warning for rain has been upgraded from yellow to amber over East Lancashire, the Met Office has confirmed.

The amber warning- which brings the "potential risk to life and property" the forecaster says, will be in place from 3pm on Saturday to 3pm on Sunday.

The warning means Storm Dennis is likely to bring very heavy rain, flooding and disruption to travel over the weekend.

A Met Office spokesman said: "Homes and businesses are likely to be flooded, causing damage to some buildings.

"Fast flowing or deep floodwater is likely, causing danger to life.

"Delays and some cancellations to train and bus services are likely.

"Spray and flooding probably leading to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

"A good chance some communities cut off by flooded roads.

"Power cuts and loss of other services to some homes and businesses likely."

The amber warning covers areas of Burnley, Padiham, parts of Rossendale, Pendle and the Ribble Valley, going north and east into Yorkshire.

A yellow weather warning for rain and wind will be in place across the rest of Lancashire.

A Burnley Council spokesman said: "Storm Dennis is on its way this weekend and people are being encouraged to prepare for further rain and stormy conditions.

"There is currently an amber rain warning from the Met Office for heavy rain at times, with the chance of flooding and traffic disruption over an area including our borough.

"Residents and businesses, especially in those areas previously hit by flooding, are being encouraged to take whatever measures they feel appropriate to prepare for the weekend's rain in order to best protect their properties, including preparing any flood prevention measures they have ready to put them in place if necessary.

"During Storm Ciara some premises suffered flood water coming up from the ground and into cellars and basements - it may be worth considring moving property out of reach of any flooding if possible.

"The council is planning and preparing its response and staff and equipment are on stand by ready to assist in any flood-hit areas."