Storm Eunice triggers pressure on emergency services across Cornwall
Our police and fire services have been taking a high number of calls
Storm Eunice has been causing a day of extra pressure on emergency services in Cornwall and around the country.
Devon & Cornwall Police have confirmed they have received over four times the amount of calls they would usually take.
Most have been regarding road disruption, fallen trees and power cables, flying debris and collapsed roofs.
Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service says with the severe weather taking they have attended numerous incidents, predominately on the north coast, with significant incidents in the Bude area.
Since 7am this morning (18th February) the Control Centre have dealt with just under 100 incidents.
Across the UK, paramedics have been dealing with multiple cases of injuries caused by flying debris.
South Central Ambulance Service, which covers and area from Oxfordshire to Hampshire, and London Fire Brigade have declared critical incidents because of the number of callouts.
Tragically, a man has been killed by a falling tree in County Wexford, Ireland.
There is a plea for people to stay away from coasts where there is a risk from powerful waves and strong winds.
HM Coastguard says there have been multiple reports of people at the waterline taking pictures of the waves, and even of families standing by the surf line with their children.
HM Coastguard Tactical Commander Ben Hambling said: “The reports we are receiving are absolutely terrifying. In these conditions all it takes is one wave.
“A dramatic photograph or selfie is not worth risking your life for and those who are going to the coast to take pictures are also putting our teams at risk.
“We are urging people in the strongest possible terms to stay away from the coast.”
If you do get into trouble or believe anybody to be in difficulty at the coast or at sea, please call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.