Storm Goretti: Yellow wind warning for coastal regions of Sussex as gusts of up to 70mph possible
Storm Goretti will bring strong winds to parts of Sussex – with a yellow weather warning issued.
A Met Office yellow weather warning will come into force at 3pm on Thursday (January 8) until 8am on Friday.
The warning impacts those in Hastings, Bexhill, Eastbourne, Seaford, Brighton, Worthing, Littlehampton and parts of the Chichester district – including the Witterings.
"Storm Goretti will bring a spell of strong winds later on Thursday and through Thursday night, which may lead to some disruption,” the government agency stated.
"Injuries and danger to life from flying debris are possible.
"Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen.
"Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible.
"Some roads and bridges may close.
"Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage.
"Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.”
A red warning for wind has been issued for the Isles of Scilly and most of Cornwall.
An amber warning for snow has also been issued for Wales, the Midlands and parts of northern England.
As Storm Goretti approaches, ‘winds will strengthen’ through Thursday afternoon – with the ‘strongest spell of winds during Thursday evening’.
Gusts of 50-60 mph are ‘likely fairly widely’ with 60-70 mph winds ‘along exposed coasts and hills’.
The Met Office added: “Depending on the exact track of Storm Goretti, there is a chance that the Isles of Scilly and south and west Cornwall could experience a short period of exceptionally strong northwesterly winds, with gusts potentially of 80-100 mph.
"Winds will gradually ease from the west through the early hours of Friday.”
People in warning areas are advised to ‘prepare to protect your property and people from injury’.
The weather experts added: “Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences.
"Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.
"People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
"If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware 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, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
You should ‘be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly’. When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.