'Extremely strong winds' to hit Axminster as Met Office issues amber weather warning

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for wind tomorrow (Friday) as Storm Eunice is set to sweep across Bridport and the South West.

It says the gale force winds will be at their strongest in coastal areas of the South West, where they "could be in excess of 90mph."

Anything above 75mph is classed as a hurricane on the Beaufort Wind Scale.

The warning states that there is a good chance that flying debris could result in a danger to life and damage to buildings and homes is likely, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down.

Roads, bridges and railway lines are likely to close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights. There is a good chance of power cuts and mobile phone coverage being affected.

People should stay away from the coast as large waves and beach material are likely to batter seafronts, and it's likely there will be falling branches and uprooted trees.

Axminster Town Council said: "The town council is aware that two storm fronts are blowing into the West Country over the next few days and wishes to highlight the availability of sandbags (filled) at the Guildhall, plus a supply of empty bags for members of the public to collect (and fill themselves).

"The store box at the Guildhall is unlocked to facilitate rapid access but please be considerate of your fellow residents and only take what you need for the situation at hand! Please also be aware that the filled bags are heavy (up to 20kg) and may require a two-person lift."

Axminster Community Primary Academy and Axe Valley Academy, as well as several village schools, will be closed tomorrow (Friday).

A red warning has been declared in other areas of the South West – the first issued by the Met Office for wind since 2018 – with a major incident being called in areas of Somerset, Gloucester and Bristol.

A spokesman said: "Extremely strong winds may develop over South West England early on Friday, before spreading north and east during the day.

"Whilst there is some uncertainty in the track of Eunice, there is an increasing likelihood of widespread inland wind gusts of 60-70mph and up to 80mph in a few places. Around coasts of west Wales and South West England, gusts of 90 or possibly even 100mph are possible.

"Winds are expected to ease across western areas through the afternoon, and eastern areas during the evening."