Storm Darragh: The clean-up continues across Herefordshire and Worcestershire
Half a dozen red flood warnings are in place across the region
Last updated 8th Dec 2024
Thousands of homes remain without power across Herefordshire and Worcestershire this morning (8 December) - as our region continues to deal with the aftermath of Storm Darragh.
Half a dozen red flood warning are in place - with the majority around Hereford - with the Environment Agency continuing to urge people to 'act now' as river levels continue to surge.
In Worcestershire, highways teams have received over 100 call outs to fallen trees so far.
And West Mercia Police are telling people to only dial 999 when there's an immediate risk to life.
Officers said on Facebook: "Please only call 999 where there is an immediate risk to life.
"We’re receiving a huge number of calls in relation to blocked roads and damage caused by storm Darragh.
"Any issues relating to blocked roads should be reported to your local council.
"Thanks for helping us to keep our phone lines free for those who need immediate help."
The message continues, that even if the storms have subsided - only travel if you absolutely have to.
GWR, TfW and West Midlands Railway are all seeing major disruption today - with services around Hereford being diverted instead to Birmingham Snow Hill.
The Government's "risk to life" alert came into effect at 1am on Saturday and was sent to people within the area covered by the Met Office's rare red warning for wind in parts of Wales and south-west England.
Energy Networks Association said 259,000 customers across England, Scotland and Wales were without power as of Saturday evening.
It said that 80% of homes affected by the storm have been reconnected.
The Environment Agency had 64 flood warnings in place in England on Sunday morning, meaning flooding is expected, while Natural Resources Wales said 25 flood warnings were active.