Red weather warning – fears of 90mph winds and threat to life from flying debris

By Rory Poulter

19th Feb 2022 | Local News

Residents have been warned to stay indoors after the Storm Eunice warning was upgraded to 'red' overnight.

A red weather warning, which will apply to London and the south east from 10am through to 3pm, carries a risk of winds gusting up to 90mph.

Damage to buildings and homes, falling branches, public transport delays and power cuts are all likely at what is feared to be the worst storm for 30 years.

All train services have been suspended across the South Western Railway Network, leaving hundreds of people stranded.

The company said: "Do not attempt to travel. We will update you when things change."

SWR has told people currently on a train that it cannot guarantee they will be able to complete their journey and it will not be providing any replacement transport.

Council leader, Cllr Gareth Roberts, tweeted a picture of some of the damage, adding: "MASSIVE tree down in Park Road, Teddington. Avoid the area if you MUST go out."

Almost 200,000 people have been tuning in to a YouTube channel as a screaming plane spotter gives a running commentary on pilots struggling to land at Heathrow. The commentator can be heard cheering on the pilots with phrases such as "Bring it in son!"

The footage details how some of the aircraft have had to abort their landings and go around at least three times. The Royal Parks, including Richmond and Bushy, and Kew Gardens are closed today for the safety of visitors amid concerns trees may be brought down. The Council has cancelled recycling bin collections from many areas amid concerns the bins will be blown away, causing a hazard. Richmond Council has issued a 'stay indoors' warning during the storm. It said: "Storm Eunice may cause significant disruption across London. "You should expect travel disruptions to roads, bridges, and railway lines, as well as possible delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services, and flights. Flying debris can also cause a danger to life, please take care and follow the below advice." It said residents should -
  • Stay indoors as much as possible
  • Avoid walking close to buildings and trees. Do not walk along tow paths and in woodland areas
  • If damage is caused, do not go outside to repair it whilst the storm is in progress
  • Do not drive unless your journey is really necessary
  • Report fallen trees immediately by calling 020 8891 1411 or reporting online
  • Secure loose objects such as bins, garden furniture and anything else that could be moved by wind
  • Close and fasten doors and windows
  • Park vehicles in a garage, if available; otherwise keep them clear of buildings, trees, walls and fences
  • Adjust your plans to avoid travel if possible
  • If you have plans to visit local attractions or parks, check whether they will still be open.
The Royal Parks announced the closures of several of its parks, including Richmond and Bushy, on Twitter saying: "This decision is based on the strong winds, the age and vulnerability of trees in particular parks." Marble Hill Park and café are also closed for the day. In an email to customers, the Kew said: "Due to severe weather, Kew Gardens and Wakehurst will be closed tomorrow, Friday February 18 2022. "This isn't a decision we've taken lightly. We always put the safety of our staff and visitors first, and that is why we've decided to close the gardens. We apologise for any inconvenience this causes. "The situation will be closely monitored and the gardens will reopen to visitors as soon as it is safe to do so. Please check our website for the latest updates." Please send any pictures capturing the effects of the storm to [email protected]
  • Orleans House Gallery - Due to the London red weather warning issued this morning, the gallery will be CLOSED today. This includes the gallery woodlands and today's Play:Make:Art session has been cancelled. This for the safety of our visitors and staff.
  • Other closures - Museum of Richmond; Ham House and Gardens; Hampton Court Palace and grounds; WWT London Wetlands Centre, Barnes.
The Richmond and Bushy parkruns due to be held tomorrow – Saturday – morning have been cancelled on the orders of the Royal Parks. Event director for Richmond, Andy Caie, said: "The Royal Parks have closed the park today, with a Health and Safety inspection taking place before potential reopening on Saturday morning. The inspection will not be concluded until after our normal start time so our event is cancelled. "We hope normal service will be resumed from the 26th."

     

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