EMERGENCY plans are being drawn up in Southend ahead of the arrival of Storm Eunice.

The Met Office has upgraded its weather warning to amber in the town and across Essex, with winds of up to 70mph expected.

Experts say flying debris caused by the winds will create a ‘danger to life’.

They are also warning about an increase chance of damage to properties and fallen trees.

Heavy rain and strong winds will arrive tonight, and gusts are expected to increase in speed throughout the day.

Southend Council says it is preparing for potential damage and disruption caused by the storm.

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Leader Ian Gilbert is urging people across the borough to be cautious.

He said: “Our resilience team is carefully monitoring the Met Office forecasts and information as the wind predictions could change and move into next week.

“Please consider how your recycling and waste containers are presented for collection, particularly if strong winds are expected on your collection day.

“We will closely monitor wind strength on Friday and will take a decision on the day if we need to close the Pier for example.

“We are also prepared to work with our partners and contractors to put traffic management measures in place if they are required and a multi-agency task group has been set up to deal with any challenges if and when they arise.”

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Mr Gilbert said the weather may also have an impact on the ongoing lights festival taking place in the town, added: “Should there be any issues with any of the installations we will inform everyone accordingly.

“This will be clearly advertised through the council’s social media channels.”

The Met Office’s amber warning for wind in Southend is in place between 3am and 9pm tomorrow.

It says to expect the following:

  • There is a good chance that flying debris could result in a danger to life
  • Damage to buildings and homes is likely, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down
  • Roads, bridges and railway lines are likely to close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights
  • There is a good chance that power cuts, possibly prolonged, could occur and possibly affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
  • Large waves are likely and beach material is likely to be thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
  • It is likely there will be falling branches and some uprooted trees

If you need to report an issue on Friday, such as a fallen tree or highway obstruction, contact the council’s helpline on 01702 215000.