Storm Babet: South Shields Lighthouse after losing its dome

As winds increased and waves battered South Shields on Friday (October 20), the weather conditions were too much for the dome of the lighthouse on the pier, as it fell of into the sea. 

Built in 1895, the lighthouse is located on the River Tyne South Pier.

Read more: South Shields pier lighthouse loses its dome in Storm Babet

In images captured by the PA news agency, the dome could be seen floating in the harbour area of South Shields, while the news agency also shared before images of the lighthouse.

An aerial shot of the South Shields lighthouse (Image: PA MEDIA)

However, in updated images on Sunday (October 22), the waves around the lighthouse looked calmer and the full extent of the damage to the lighthouse could be seen.

Damage to the lighthouse on Friday (October 20) (Image: PA MEDIA)

Members of the public could also be seen walking up to the lighthouse and enjoying the sunrise - knowing that there was something different about the coastal landscape. 

People enjoying the sunrise at South Shields on Sunday (October 22) (Image: PA MEDIA)

It's expected that the lighthouse will now be assessed for damage and how the dome can be fitted back onto the structure. 

The aftermath of the lighthouse damage (Image: PA MEDIA)

Over the weekend, the Port of Tyne explained the next steps in fixing South Shields lighthouse, including waiting for conditions to improve until it can be assessed.

Get more from The Northern Echo with a Premium Plus Digital Subscription for as little as £1.50 a week. Click here.

A Port of Tyne spokesman said: “Initial assessments indicate that the top dome of the lighthouse has been dislodged by the severe weather conditions.

“Unfavorable weather is expected to continue for several days, making immediate inspections unfeasible.

“However, a comprehensive evaluation of both the North and South pier structures and lighthouses will be conducted as soon as safety permits.