Residents on the US east coast have been urged to fully prepare for the arrival of Hurricane Matthew, amid warnings its impact could be "devastating".

At least 11 deaths have been blamed on Hurricane Matthew during its rampage through the Caribbean and it is now fast approaching Florida.

Forecasts for the area worsened overnight, with heavy rain, coastal flooding and high winds predicted as early as Thursday afternoon.

Matthew is currently classed as a Category 3 hurricane but forecasters believe the storm will again pick up strength in the coming hours.

Rick Scott, the Florida state governor, repeatedly used the words"devastating" and "catastrophic" as he urged his residents to take the hurricane seriously and evacuate high-risk areas "before it's too late".

"Whether it is a direct hit or not, the impact will be devastating," Mr Scott told a press conference on Wednesday.

Governor Scott issued a state of emergency, activated members of the National Guard and told residents to stock up on at least three days' worth of food, water and medicine.

Rick Scott, Florida State Governor: "Having a plan in place could mean the difference between live and death.

"We can rebuild a home, we can rebuild your business, we cannot rebuild your life."

A state of emergency is also in force in South Carolina where its governor is preparing to evacuate almost a quarter of its population.

Follow the latest on Hurricane Matthew with ITV News