Storm Eunice forecast for Suffolk

An amber weather warning is in place for much of England on Friday February 18, with the Met Office warning of significant disruption and danger to life from Storm Eunice. Gusts of up to 80mph are anticipated in Suffolk between 10:00am and 5:00pm tomorrow.

Although Suffolk Resilience Forum continues to work closely with partners to keep the county safe, residents are urged to play their part by avoiding unnecessary journeys during the worst of the storm.

Those who must travel should:

• Drive to the conditions, with debris and surface water expected
• Report fallen trees and obstructions on roads and paths to Suffolk Highways on 0345 606 6171
• Avoid coastal areas due to an increased risk of erosion posing danger to life
• Plan their journey well in advance and check for travel disruption before leaving the house – the Orwell Bridge will be closed in both directions from 4:00am tomorrow and rail networks plan to operate a reduced service

The storm may also cause disruption to the county’s power supply, with residents encouraged to prepare for this by fully charging their mobile phones and having torches to hand.

Further information on powercuts can be found at: www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/power-cut or by contacting UK Power Networks on 105. Damaged powerlines can also be reported to this number, as well as 999 if there is an immediate risk to public safety.

Suffolk residents can keep updated on the storm and subsequent disruptions by:

• Following @SuffolkCC on Twitter or Suffolk County Council on Facebook
• Monitoring the weather forecast at www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/forecast/uk
• Visiting schoolclosures.suffolk.gov.uk/ for up-to-date information on school closures
• Checking www.suffolkrecycling.org.uk/ before visiting recycling centres in the county
• Getting the latest information on Orwell Bridge closures at @HighwaysEAST