A Russian cargo ship is being prepared to enter Southampton Harbour after becoming stranded.

Currently at anchor in the Solent, a pilot vessel is assessing its stability and cargo amid fears for the safety of 13 crew members on board.

The Coastguard said it had power and was currently stable, while the 13 crew on board the Mekhanik Yartsdev were reported to be safe and well.

The maritime search and rescue service has warned of severe gales and rough seas later on Tuesday, adding it was in discussions with the owners of the vessel and vessel's agent.

Navigational safety broadcasts were being issued every 30 minutes to warn shipping in the area and a tug and lifeboat were standing by.

A radio broadcast directed at the ship's crew said: "Your vessel is significantly listing and may need help.

"We have assessed the actions you have taken so far to recover from your current situation and have been unable to rectify the situation."

The Coastguard said plans were under way to take the ship, the Mekhanik Yartsdev, to a berth in Southampton Harbour.

"The vessel has its own power and as a precautionary measure it will be assisted by a pilot vessel, two tugs and escorted by an RNLI all-weather lifeboat until it's safely alongside," a statement said.

"Once berthed a surveyor will inspect the vessel's stability and cargo."