An Amber weather warning has been issued by the Met Office for strong winds overnight, meaning Islanders should be prepared for significant travel disruption and possible power outages, fallen trees and damage to buildings.
From 01:15 tomorrow morning (Sunday) forecasters say wind speeds of 70mph are possible across the Isle of Wight and along the South Coast, mixed with heavy rain fall from 21:00 this evening – which is already under a yellow weather warning.
An amber warning means that travel delays, road and rail closures, interruption to power and the potential risk to life and property are all expected and that you should be prepared to change your plans and protect you, your family and community from the impacts of the severe weather.
Stay with Island Echo through this evening and overnight as we bring you all the latest news and information. Should it be deemed necessary, live minute-by-minute coverage will be provided.
Before the storm
• Secure loose objects such as wheelie bins, garden furniture or anything else that could be blown into windows and other glazing and break them
• Close and securely fasten doors and windows, particularly those on the windward side of the house, and especially large doors such as those on garages
• Park vehicles in a garage, if available; otherwise keep them clear of buildings, trees, walls and fences
• Be aware of potential hazards nearby
During the storm
• Stay indoors as much as possible
• If you do go out, try not to walk or shelter close to buildings and trees
• Keep away from the sheltered side of boundary walls and fences – if these structures fail, they will collapse on this side
• Do not go outside to repair damage while the storm is in progress
• If possible, enter and leave your house through doors in the sheltered side, closing them behind you
• Open internal doors only as needed, and close them behind you
• Take care when driving on exposed routes such as bridges, or high open roads, delay your journey or find alternative routes if possible
• Slow down and be aware of side winds, particular care should be taken if you are towing or are a high sided vehicle
• Do not drive unless your journey is really necessary
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