Amber Weather Alert issued for the weekend during Storm Darragh

The Met Office has issued an Amber Weather Alert for Storm Darragh covering the South Hams on Saturday and Sunday. 

The Met Office is warning of "potentially damaging winds associated with Storm Darragh" across the South Hams on Saturday and Sunday, 7 and 8 December. 

The Yellow Alert for wind covers Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 6, 7 and 8 December, with an Amber Alert in place from 3am to 9pm on the Saturday. 

What should I expect?

• There is a good chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
• Probably some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
• Longer journey times and cancellations likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected
• Flying debris is likely and could lead to Injuries or danger to life
• Some roads and bridges likely to close, with falling trees an additional hazard
• Injuries and danger to life is likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties

Advice from the Met Office gives five steps for staying safe in high winds: 

1. Protecting your property from damage and other people from injury
Don't risk injury to others or damage to your property. Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them in high winds.
Items include:

• bins 
• plant pots 
• garden furniture (bring inside or secure in place) 
• trampolines (turn upside down or secure with tent pegs)
• sheds (ensure doors are locked) 

2. Things you can do before a journey
Windy weather can cause delays and make driving conditions dangerous. Follow these few simple steps to prepare before journeys:

• Plan your route, check for delays and road closures
• Listen out for travel updates on your car radio/sat nav
• If you don't have essentials in your car then pack for the worst (warm clothing, food, drink, blanket, torch)
• Take a fully charged mobile phone with an in-car charger or battery pack

3. Driving safely in strong wind
Driving in these conditions can be dangerous, for yourself and other road users. If you must drive, you can do this more safely by:

• Driving slowly to minimise the impact of wind gusts
• Be aware of high sided vehicles/caravans on more exposed roads
• Be cautious overtaking high sided vehicles/caravans
• Make sure you hold the steering wheel firmly
• Give cyclists, motorcyclists, lorries and buses more room than usual

4. Staying safe when you're at the coast
If you live or work on the coast take extra care during windy and stormy weather. Keep yourself and others safe by following these simple steps: 

• Check the forecasts and tides in your local area here
• Beware of large waves, even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea
• Take care if walking near cliffs – know your route and keep dogs on a lead
• In an emergency 999 (UK) or 112 (Ireland) and ask for the Coastguard

5. Avoiding injury if you're out and about
Being outside in high winds makes you more vulnerable to injury. Stay indoors as much as possible. If you do go out, try not to walk or shelter close to buildings and trees.

Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, stay up to date with the weather in your area.

Find out more about the weather warnings on the Met Office website: UK weather warnings - Met Office