Weather Warning Storm Ciarán

Storm Ciarán is forecast to arrive this evening (Wednesday 1 November) with winds reaching a peak 60 plus mph in some parts of Essex by Thursday evening. Winds of this speed can cause trees to uproot and flying debris to impact transport and travel. Flooding could also be possible in areas where the ground is saturated.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is advising residents to be prepared and make sure property and garden furniture is well secured ahead of the storm.

David Walpole, Group Manager, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, said:

"Take some time to clear your gardens from anything left from the summer months and secure anything that might blow away. Loose objects such as your bins, plant pots, garden furniture and trampolines should all be moved inside, turned upside down or secured to the ground with tent pegs. Also lock all doors and windows of sheds, garages and outbuildings to keep them safe.

"We are also urging Essex residents to only travel if necessary and check in on any vulnerable neighbours and family members to make sure they are safe."

Who to contact if you are impacted by Storm Ciarán

During adverse weather conditions it is important to remember that you should only call 999 in an emergency or if there is risk to life. This is to ensure life-threatening calls can get through.

Please find below a list of useful contacts to help residents know where to seek assistance if needed:

Dangerous debris on fast moving roads (motorway/dual carriageway): Call 999 Police

Fallen tree on major road not endangering life: Contact Essex Highways on 0345 603 7631

Fallen tree on minor road not endangering life: Contact Essex Highways on 0345 603 7631

Fallen tree on public land not endangering life: Contact Chelmsford City Council on 01245 606606 (ask for 'Parks')

Fallen tree on road or vehicle endangering life: Call 999 Fire Service

Unsafe structure overhanging a public highway or public footpath: Call 999 Fire Service

Unsafe structure overhanging property NOT endangering life: Personal responsibility

Unsafe structure overhanging property endangering life: Call 999 Fire Service

General flooding NO risk to life: Wait for water to subside

Flooding with risk to life: Call 999 Fire Service

Car stuck in flood water and NO risk to life: Get out and call your recovery company to recover your vehicle

Car stuck in flood water and can NOT get out: Call 999 Fire Service

Flooding affecting electrics: Only if safe to do so isolate electrics - if in doubt call 999 Fire Service

Loss of electricity/gas/water supply: Call your utility supplier

Advice from Essex Fire and Rescue Service

Make sure your property and garden furniture is well secured.

Stay away from coastal walks.

Avoid using the roads if you can. If you must travel, prepare for your journey by checking weather updates and road closures before leaving with Essex Highways.

Never drive into flood water. Stay safe by finding an alternative route.

Download the what3words app to help you find, share and save your precise location if you need help from the emergency services while you're out.

Remember: only call 999 if there is a risk to life.