Britain’s north-east coast is braced for the worst weather in a decade tonight as Storm Damien sweeps in with gusts of up to 80mph.
The Met Office has issued an amber warning covering the whole coastline from the Humber to the Scottish border, valid from 6pm until midday tomorrow. Waves of up to 9 metres are forecast along exposed stretches.
Rail operators have already cancelled evening services on the coastal route and two ferry crossings have been called off. Schools in the worst-hit areas will close tomorrow morning.
What to expect
- Gusts of 70 to 80mph on headlands and over high ground
- Very large waves and spray over sea fronts, harbours and coast roads
- Power cuts likely, with some homes cut off for hours
- Flying debris and fallen trees, with delays on roads and bridges
“Stay indoors”
A coastguard spokesman said: “If you do not need to be near the sea tonight, do not go near the sea. Waves can sweep a person off a pier or promenade without warning.”
In one seaside town, shopkeepers spent the afternoon boarding up windows and filling sandbags. Fish-and-chip shop owner Raj Mistry, 49, said he would stay open as long as the electricity held. “People still want their tea,” he said. “They can eat it in the car.”
Energy companies say engineers are on standby. If your power goes off, the number to ring is 105. Keep a torch handy, charge your phone now and bring in anything that could blow away.
