THE Met Office have issued an amber warning for wind as two storms are set to bring "danger to life" in the North East and North Yorkshire this week.
Initially the weather forecaster issued a yellow warning for wind, however, as of today, there is now an additional amber warning in place as well.
Met Office say Storm Dudley is expected to affect the UK on Wednesday night and Thursday, bringing a period of “very strong and disruptive winds.”
Storm Eunice is then set to hit the UK on Friday also bringing strong winds and "flying debris."
How long is the warning in place?
The amber warning for wind is currently in place from Wednesday February 16 at 6pm to Thursday February 17 at 9am.
A yellow warning for wind is also in place from 3pm on Wednesday February 16 to 6pm on Thursday February 17.
An additional yellow warning for wind is also in place from Midnight on Friday morning until 9pm on Friday night as Storm Eunice hits the UK.
What can I expect from the warning?
According to the weather forecaster, road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected and some roads and bridges are likely to close.
The Met Office have also warned of injuries and danger to life from both storms is likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties.
Falling trees and damage to buildings is also one to look out for, such as tiles being blown from roof tops and flying debris.
Power cuts are also likely, just as many have recovered, and are still recovering, from Storm Arwen last year and phone coverage could also be affected.
What will the weather be like today and tomorrow?
Looking at the Met Office forecast for today, cloudy weather and heavy rain at times have been predicted for the North East with temperatures nearing average.
As night time rolls around things are set to turn clearer, according to The Met Office, with possible rain and hill snow likely as the minimum temperature drops to -1c.
Tuesday will be wet and windy initially followed by sunshine and showers, some being wintery over higher grounds.
More persistent rain has been predicted during the evening with a maximum temperature of 7c.
What will the weather be like this weekend?
According to The Met Office things are looking to become increasingly “unsettled” with cold and wintery showers in the north.
“Some disruptive winds” have also been predicted with snow by the end of the week.
The full forecast between Friday February 18 to Sunday February 27 reads: “Looking to become increasingly unsettled through the start of this period, feeling cold with sunny spells and wintry showers to the north, while central and southern areas are expected to be cloudier with some rain, potentially heavy.
“Perhaps some disruptive winds accompanied by rain and short lived snow by the end of the week.
“Remaining changeable into the following week, in addition to possible spells of rain, some wintry, to the north, there is potential for heavy rainfall to the west and northwest.
“Strong winds likely to continue with a risk of gales across these areas, with severe gales along coastal regions.
“Temperatures generally around average, perhaps coldest to the north where some short lived cold spells could bring some brief periods of snow.”
What can I do to prepare for the storm?
The Met Office has issued the following advice to prepare for storms and winter weather:
1. Know what to do in a powercut
It's now really simple to get in touch with your Electricity Distribution Network Operator - just call 105.
2. Ensure you’re insured
Sometimes no amount of planning and preparation can prevent the weather damaging your property. Buildings insurance offers peace of mind, so ensure your policy is up to date and covers what you need it to.
3. Avoid flying garden furniture
When high winds are forecast, remember that some everyday items in the garden can become 'missiles'. Most winters we see pictures of airborne trampolines and garden furniture.
4. Check your roof
Before it gets windy it's also worth checking for loose tiles, slates and flashing and consider removing dead branches from old trees.
5. Clear your guttering
As leaves start to fall, there’s a risk that wind will blow leaves into your gutters and drainpipes will get filled up. If this builds up, the water will go back into the guttering and leak into the roof and sides of your house.
6. Trim up
To avoid build-up of leaves in the guttering, the best thing to do is to prune your trees before winter really kicks in. This can also help with avoiding snow building up on the trees, which with it brings the risk of damage from broken branches.
7. Don't leave yourself open to frozen and burst pipes
It's important to make sure water pipes and water tanks in the loft are insulated with good quality lagging. This will not only protect from freezing but it will help insulate your hot water system and save your money.
8. Check your flood risk
Check if your home is at risk of flooding
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Are you worried about the storms?
Let us know if you're worried about Storm Dudley and Storm Eunice and where you're based
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