A weather warning has been issued for much of the North West, with gusts of wind up to 80mph set to batter the country.
The Met Office has issued the yellow warning from midnight until 9pm today, Thursday December 21.
The A66 in Durham/Cumbria is closed to high sided and vulnerable vehicles in both directions between the A1 junction 53 and the M6 junction 40 due to the strong winds.
The Met Office said: “Strong west to north westerly winds are likely to develop across a large swathe of the country.
“Quite widely winds are expected to gust 45mph to 55mph, with stronger gusts, possibly reaching 65mph to 70mph, over and to the east of high ground, mainly across the north of the warning area.
“However, the strongest winds are likely to be across the far north and northeast of Scotland, including the Northern Isles during the morning.
“Here, gusts of 70mph to 80 mph are possible for a time. Winds will slowly moderate from the west Thursday evening.”
It has been named Storm Pia by the Danish Met Institute.
What to expect
- There is a small chance of longer journey times or cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected
- There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
- There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
- There is a small chance that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
- There is a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris
- There is a small chance that some roads and bridges could close
What should I do?
- The Met Office said people should prepare to protect property and others from injury.
- Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds and fences.
- Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.
- People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
- If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea.
- Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly.
