Council bosses have cancelled a Southend High Street market tomorrow and could shut the pier as Storm Ciaran is set to hit the city in "the next few hours".

Storm Ciaran is approaching the county, bringing strong and potentially damaging winds as well as heavy rain from 9pm tonight until 11.59pm tomorrow - with two weather warnings in place in the area.

Due to the high winds expected tomorrow, the weekly Thursday market in Southend High Street has been cancelled.

The council also warns Southend Pier could be shut, in part or entirely, tomorrow as teams monitor the weather.

A council spokesman said: "With Storm Ciaran due to hit in the next few hours, please take necessary steps to make sure your family and property are kept safe.

"Please note Thursday's market in Southend High Street has been cancelled.

"The weather will continue to be monitored by our teams as high winds could lead to the closure of all or part of Southend Pier."

Southend Council advice to prepare for Storm Ciaran

Here is Southend Council's advice to residents as they prepare for the storm to batter the city:

  • Make sure loose garden furniture including trampolines, are weighed down and secured  
  • Avoid non-essential journeys, including coastal walks
  • If you must drive, adjust your driving for the conditions, reduce your speed, leaving plenty of braking distance and do not drive through flood water 
  • Where possible, check that any rain gulley near your property is clear

Resident's can check their property's flood risk at https://orlo.uk/HRsJ3.