FRIDAY 18TH FEBRUARY - AMBER WEATHER WARNING FOR CHESHIRE EAST

On Friday 18 February, we are expecting widespread disruption due to Storm Eunice, with high winds of at least 50-60mph expected from tomorrow morning from 6am with the potential for speeds up to 70mph, until around 3pm, when we expect the weather to slightly improve.

Amber warning for Cheshire East and the region.

An amber warning has been issued by the Met Office. This means that there is an increased likelihood of impacts from severe weather, the possibility of travel delays, road and rail closures, power cuts and the potential risk to life and property.

People should consider changing their plans and taking action to protect themselves and their properties. This includes making sure that wheelie bins are stored away securely, and that any outdoor furniture is fastened or stored safely, too.

You can keep up-to-date with weather warnings by visiting the Met Office website.

What to expect

We must prepare for disruption and damage caused by Storm Eunice. This could include:

·       It is highly likely that there will be falling branches and some uprooted trees

·       Some roads, bridges and railway lines may close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights

·       There is a chance that flying debris could cause serious injury

·       Damage to some buildings and homes is likely

·       There is a good chance that power cuts could occur

·       Large waves could occur in coastal/ tidal areas

Preparations

The council has set up an adverse weather desk to help coordinate our response to the storm tomorrow and emergency teams have been set up.

The following parks will be closed to the public tomorrow:

• Tatton Park, Knutsford
• Queens Park, Crewe
• Westminster Street, Crewe
• Fountain Fields, Middlewich
• Lacey Green, Wilmslow
• The Moor, Knutsford

Report any issues

If you see a fallen tree, faulty streetlight or blocked gully within the borough, you can help us by reporting it online if it is not urgent. If it presents an immediate danger, please call 0300 123 5020 during working hours or 0300 123 5025 outside of working hours.

Fallen trees will be prioritised for clearance based on where they are and will at all times consider the safety of our staff. During the peak of the storm, the focus will be on maintaining the primary route network, such as roads to hospitals.

If residents in your ward experience a power cut, they are advised to call 105.

Further advice on how to prepare and stay safe in a storm can be found on the Met Office website.

For the latest updates on the storm locally, including road closures, please follow @CECHighways and  @CheshireEast