WINDS of over 70 mph are forecast to hit the region tomorrow as part of Storm Éowyn.
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for ‘very strong’ winds locally from midnight to midnight on Friday.
Furthermore, there’s an amber warning now in place for gusts of up to 90 mph across the whole of Dumfries and Galloway between 6 am to 9 pm.
During that time, forecasters say peak gusts are likely to be 60-70 mph inland, but could get up to 80 mph and even 90 mph ‘along more exposed coasts and hills, perhaps higher in a few locations’.
As a result, widespread disruption is predicted, including power cuts, rail and ferry cancellations, road and bridge closures and property damage.
In addition, the weather service is also expecting snow in the region, with another yellow alert for that between 3 am and 12 noon.
However, it’s is likely to be on higher ground and will gave way to rain by midday.
Meanwhile, SP Energy Networks has compiled ‘top tips’ to keep people safe, should their power go out due to the storm. These are:
Ensure you store a battery-powered or wind-up torch in an easily accessible location so you can use it to check the fuse box and navigate around your home safely.
Power lines may fall because of stormy weather so beware of this when venturing out of your home. Always treat them as live, stay away and report them right away by calling 999.
Having your mobile phone charged means you can give SP Energy Networks a call on the national 105 emergency helpline.
If your power does go out, your heating might not work, so keep extra blankets nearby and close window shutters, blinds or curtains to help keep the heat in.
Customers who feel they need extra support may be eligible for the Priority Services Register. Visit the SP Energy Networks website or call 0330 10 10 167 for more information.
Make sure SPEN have up-to-date contact details for you, so they can keep in touch as appropriate.
