Forecasters have issued two new weather warnings as the region braces itself for a rollercoaster of turbulent weather.

Savage winds and driving rain has been forecast the rest of the week and into Monday and forecasters are warning that that may lead to travel disruption and power cuts.

Winds of over 30kmph and persistent rain are forecast across the south west as the area recovers from the remnants of Hurricane Florence smash into the UK.

During the course of today Southwesterly winds will strengthen, with gales around coasts and hills and heavy rains are forecast for this evening.

Despite this it will be warm with a maximum temperature of 20 °C.

 

The first yellow warning for weather is in place between 6pm tonight (Thursday, September 20) and 9am tomorrow morning.

There is the potential for very strong winds this evening and overnight into Friday morning.

During the course of tomorrow weather will turn cooler and windy with spells of sunshine and the chance of a few blustery showers spreading in from the west.

However another 24-hour government weather warning is in place across the whole of England from Sunday morning into Monday.

Winds could be strong enough to damage buildings and close roads and bridges with flights and ferry services under threat.

The renewed stormy weather is due to a deep area of low-pressure will tear in from the Atlantic over the course of today dishing up more violent gales and torrential downpours.

If the storm develops as is expected it could earn the second name of the season, Bronagh.

 

Met Office spokesman Richard Miles said: “Storm Ali is expected to have passed into the North Sea by Wednesday night, however there is another system coming in from the Atlantic on Thursday.

“This will bring some very strong winds across southern Britain and will be accompanied by rain in the west, this system will bring further unsettled weather into Friday.

“We have a brief respite on Saturday before the next deep low arrives on Sunday and this will bring strong winds across the whole of England all the way from the Scottish borders southwards.

“The effects of this will last into Monday and there are further weather warnings in place for the start of next week.

“It is too early to say whether this will generate another named storm, however it is certainly the sort of thing that could and we will be keeping an eye on it,” he told The Express newspaper.

Although weather is looking more settled for next week the Environment Agency have also warned flooding from overflowing rivers and heavy rainfall will be a risk this weekend.

Here's what a yellow warning for wind means:

  • There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs or through falling trees and branches. This could also bring the chance of injuries and danger to life.
  • There is a small chance of longer journey times or cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected
  • There is a small chance that some roads and bridges could close
  • There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
  • There is a small chance that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.

A few tips for driving in windy weather:

  • Gusts of wind can unsettle vehicles – grip your steering wheel firmly with both hands. This is particularly important when planning to overtake.
  • Keep an eye out for gaps between trees, buildings or bridges over a river or railway – these are some of the places you are more likely to be exposed to side winds. Ensure that you maintain enough room either side of your vehicle so you can account for it being blown sideways.

What to do in a power cut:

  • If you experience a power cut you should contact the electricity Distribution Network Operator (DNO) that covers your area.
  • It's your Electricity Distribution Network Operator (DNO) who is responsible for maintaining physical electricity supplies to your home or business. DNOs own and operate the distribution network of towers and cables that bring electricity from the national transmission network to homes and businesses. They don't sell electricity to consumers, this is done by the electricity retailers whose name appears on your bill.
  • The electricity network operators have introduced 105 - to give you an easy-to-remember number to call that will put you through to the local people who can help during a power cut.
  • Alternatively you can find the details for all the electricity Distribution Network Operator companies on the Energy Networks Association postcode lookup tool.
  • For gas emergencies dial 0800 111999

Precautions to take and how to deal with a power cut:

In the event of a power outage there are some simple precautions you can take to help best prepare and deal with the situation:

  • If electricity is crucial for any medical equipment you have, please contact your DNO at any time as they may be able to put you on their Priority Register (see below) for assistance during any power outage.
  • Make sure you have multiple torches along with extra batteries
  • Make sure you keep your mobile phone charged so you can make calls in case of an emergency
  • Keep fridges and freezers closed, with a blanket over as they will stay cold for many hours
  • Keep important documents safe and handy
  • Look out for elderly neighbours and ensure they are prepared for a possible power cut
  • Switch off appliances - turn off items such as irons, ovens, electric fires and fryers as they could pose a hazard if the power comes back on when you are not there
  • If your power goes off unexpectedly, check to see if your neighbours still have electricity. If their power is also off don't assume that the DNO has already been notified - always call to let them know.
  • If your neighbours still have power but your home doesn't, it's likely there is a problem with the fuses or trip switches in your home.

Help for older and disabled people in case of power cuts:

  • Get yourself or someone you care for on the Priority Services Register in case of power cuts - this is a free service provided by water and power suppliers for older and disabled people, or if you depend on electricity to keep medical or mobility equipment running.Today