Storm Eunice 2022: Rare red weather warning issued for London by Met Office

Rare red weather warnings have been issued across London and the southeast, as Storm Eunice is expected to bring gusts of up to 100mph.

People are being urged to stay at home, and only travel if journeys are absolutely necessary, while forecasters warn “significant” gusts may bring down trees, power lines and roofs.

This is the first time a red warning has been issued in London, Met Office meteorologist Alex Deakin told Sky News.

Forecasters have warned of serious disruption and “dangerous conditions” due to the “extremely strong winds”.

The Met Office say damage is likely to include:

• Flying debris resulting in danger to life.
• Damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down.
• 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.

Wind speeds are set to be between 70-80mph inland, while coastal areas may see up to 90mph.

What is a Met Office red warning?

The forecaster says its warnings are designed “to let people, businesses, emergency responders and governments know what weather is in store and what the impacts of that weather may be”.

Weather warnings are issued through the National Severe Weather Warning Service, when severe weather has the potential to affect the UK.

Red warnings are described as: “Dangerous weather is expected and, if you haven’t already done so, you should take action now to keep yourself and others safe from the impact of the severe weather.

“It is very likely that there will be a risk to life, with substantial disruption to travel, energy supplies and possibly widespread damage to property and infrastructure.

“You should avoid travelling, where possible, and follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities.”

Red warnings are extremely rare.

When is is in place for London?

The red warning for wind - which is the Met Office’s most severe alert - will cover the capital and much of the southeast from 10am to 3pm today (Friday, February 18).

It includes Greater London, Surrey, Kent, East Sussex and Essex.

The red alert was issued at 4am, just hours before Storm Eunice is expected to hit Wales and the southwest, before making its way across the country.

Amber warnings are in place across most of England from 5am to 9pm throughout the day.

The army has been put on standby.

What have the Met Office said?

Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen said: “After the impacts from Storm Dudley for many on Wednesday, Storm Eunice will bring damaging gusts in what could be one of the most impactful storms to affect southern and central parts of the UK for a few years.”

“The red warning areas indicate a significant danger to life as extremely strong winds provide the potential for damage to structures and flying debris.

“Although the most exposed coastal areas could see gusts in excess of 90mph, winds will remain notably strong further inland, with gusts of between 60-70mph for most within the amber warning area, and up to 80mph in a few places.”

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: A red warning has now been issued for London.

“Storm Eunice will bring damaging winds which pose a risk to life today. Please stay at home, do not take risks, and do not travel unless absolutely essential.”

The London Fire Brigade has warned: “Storm Eunice is expected to bring very strong winds this morning.

“Be alert – listen for weather warnings and secure loose items in your garden or on balconies.

“If you must travel, take extra care as strong winds could knock down trees and pick up debris.”

More to follow.