West Sussex set for windy Boxing Day

Weather warnings will be in effect with the arrival of Storm Bella

Published 26th Dec 2020

West Sussex is gearing up for a windy Boxing Day, with an amber 'danger to life' weather warning coming into effect this evening.

The Met Office says we could see gusts of up to 80 miles per hour from 10pm on the 26th December, through until 9am on the 27th.

Forecasters say there could be a danger to life from large waves and debris being washed up.

We're also being told to expect damage to buildings, travel trouble and power cuts.

What to expect

Longer journey times and cancellations likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected

Some roads and bridges likely to close

Probably some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs

Flying debris is likely and could lead to Injuries or danger to life

Injuries and danger to life is likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties

There is a good chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage

Here's what the Met Office is saying:

"Very strong southwesterly winds are expected for parts of south and southeast England and south Wales on Sunday morning.

"Inland gusts of 50-60 mph are likely with a few spots likely to see 60-70 mph for a time.

"Hills and particularly coasts exposed to the southwesterly winds will see a few gusts of 70-80 mph.

"In addition to the strong winds, a period of heavy, squally rain is expected and may prove an additional hazard."

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