Storm Eunice sparks red 'danger to life' weather warning for Cornwall
The Met Office has issued its highest alert for the whole of the north coast
Last updated 17th Feb 2022
The Met Office has upgraded its weather warning for parts of Cornwall to its highest level, as Storm Eunice approaches.
A red warning for strong winds has been issued for the whole of the north coast, which could pose a danger to life.
The rare alert will be in force between 7am and 12pm on Friday, with an amber level warning remaining until 9pm.
Forecasters say gusts of up to 100mph are possible, resulting in huge waves, flying debris, fallen trees and power cables and widespread travel disruption.
Cornwall Council has already urged people to take extra precautions and not to travel unless it is absolutely necessary.
What can we expect from Storm Eunice?
The Met Office says: "Storm Eunice causing significant disruption and dangerous conditions due to extremely strong winds on Friday". We can expect:
Flying debris resulting in danger to life
Damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down
Uprooted trees are likely
Roads, bridges and railway lines closed, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights
Power cuts affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage
Large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and homes, including flooding of some coastal properties
The updated forecast states: "Extremely strong west to southwesterly winds will develop over southwest England and south Wales early on Friday.
"Widespread inland gusts of 70-80mph are likely and up to around 90mph near some coasts, with dangerous conditions on beaches and seafronts.
"Winds are expected to ease from the west during the late morning".
It is feared Storm Eunice could trigger a tidal surge along the north coast, with areas from St Ives to Bude expected to be most at risk.
You can check the latest warnings and forecast for Cornwall on the Met Office website.