Storm Freya is expected to push quickly north-east across parts of England, Wales and southern Scotland through Sunday afternoon and evening, before clearing into the North Sea through the early part of Monday.
Gusts of 55-65 mph are likely widely, with the potential for gusts of 70-80 mph for coastal parts of Devon and Cornwall, as well as Irish Sea coasts of Wales and north-west England.
Mark Mercer, network systems manager at Electricity North West, said: “Over the weekend, we’ll be closely monitoring the weather to ensure any damage is repaired and power returns as quickly as possible if it does go off.
“We’d urge people that if they do see any damage to our overhead power lines, please stay away and report it to us straight away so we can repair it safely. As always, we work around the clock during incidents like this, and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week if customers need any help or advice.”
Storm Freya will bring very strong winds, with some travel disruption and possible dangerous conditions late Sunday and into Monday.
What to expect:
- Injuries and danger to life from flying debris are possible
- Some damage to buildings and trees, such as tiles blown from roofs and fallen branches, could happen
- Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible
- Some roads and bridges may close
- Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
- Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
