Yellow warning of wind affecting the East of England

A yellow weather warning has been declared for the East of England, with strong winds expected between 5am and 3pm on Friday, 24 January, as Storm Éowyn moves across the northwest of the UK.

South to southwesterly winds will strengthen with gusts of 40-50mph likely for a time, perhaps higher on exposed coasts and hills, before easing through the afternoon.

The may be some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport, and it’s likely that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and/or large waves.

A few bus and train services may also be affected, with some journeys taking longer. Some short-term loss of power and other services is also possible.

Delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges are also likely.

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.

Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.

The RSPCA has also issued advice as the animal charity’s flood rescue teams are poised to respond to emergencies.

The charity has approximately 32 specially-trained officers and a fleet of emergency rescue boats that can be launched for water rescues of animals.

The water rescue teams are trained to operate in fast-flowing and contaminated water, and can be called upon to assist in rescuing animals, people and provide assistance to communities affected by flooding.

Animal owners are advised to keep an eye on local forecasts and check for warnings, and the animal charity is also calling on people to take immediate action to ensure the welfare of animals - as rising water levels and strong winds take a toll on the natural habitats of wild fowl and other wildlife.

RSPCA inspector Jason Finch, National Water Rescue coordinator, said: “It’s really important we once again help our animal friends get through this bout of bad weather this week, which could possibly lead to flooding and other damage caused by very strong gusts of wind.

“Animals must not be forgotten as the country prepares for Storm Éowyn.

“Floodwater can rise very quickly so if there is a flood warning in your area then act early - make sure you have a plan so that you know how to get your animals out of danger if the worst was to happen and you found yourself caught up in flooding.

“We have lots of helpful advice and tips available for people to make sure their pets and local wildlife are kept safe, and we’d urge animal lovers to help us by spreading these potentially lifesaving messages.

“In areas affected by flooding owners should be looking to bring small animals inside and move them upstairs, while livestock should be taken up to higher ground with enough supplies for their needs.

“Horses or livestock in flooded fields is also a big concern whenever there is heavy rain forecast, so while we’ve not had to launch any rescues yet, we are urging pet owners and farmers to act now to ensure the safety of their animals.

“Wild animals can also struggle in stormy weather but people can help them too. For example, they can leave some extra food out for hungry birds above ground level and even provide shelter for ground-nesting birds.”

For more information, visit metoffice.gov.uk.