Here is an update from the Met Office and utility companies on the expected bad weather.

The Met Office have issued a Yellow Warning of possible high winds valid from 00:10 on Tue, 21st Oct 2014 until 6pm on Tue, 21st Oct 2014

Gales, and more locally severe gales, are expected to affect much of the country on Tuesday. Whilst Monday night will see wet and windy conditions sweeping eastwards, the strongest winds are expected to occur after the rain clears and winds veer northwesterly through Tuesday morning. Gusts exceeding 55 mph are likely inland, with 60 to 70 mph gusts in some exposed coastal areas in the west.

The Met Office says: “The public should be aware of the potential for disruption to travel and possible damage to trees. Difficult driving conditions will result, perhaps exacerbated by surface water and spray in places.”

UK Power Networks have also declared a System Emergency (Prepare) and that they are monitoring the storm due to cross our area in the early hours of tomorrow morning and are putting preparations in place to respond as necessary.

They say: “Today is a normal day across the networks with no widespread power cuts due to the weather. However, UK Power Networks is working closely with the Met Office to track the strong winds that are forecast to hit the UK tomorrow, Tuesday. These strong winds are due to affect the Eastern and Southern areas of our network during Tuesday 21st October from early morning and may last throughout the day. If the storm affects power lines, our paramount focus will be on restoring electricity to customers as quickly and safely as possible.

“Our electricity network is built to be resilient but extreme weather can affect overhead power lines. Our emergency plans have been put in to place, with extra engineers and other staff on duty to deal with situations as and when they arise. As always our priorities in these situations are public safety and restoring supplies to customers as quickly and safely as possible.”

They urge the public and responders to stay well clear from power lines and anyone spotting a damaged power line needs to report it to UK Power Networks.

Power cuts and damaged lines can be reported on free helplines. In the South East call 0800 783 8866 and in the East of England call 0800 783 8838. Incidents can also be reported via the website at www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk or follow the company on twitter for updates @ukpowernetworks.

If further advice or guidance is needed, contact the Emergency Planning Team on either 01223 727945 (Non Urgent) or 01223 718631 (Urgent).