Storm Ciarán to Batter South Coast with 80mph Winds
Brace yourselves! Storm Ciarán is hitting coastal and mainland southern areas tonight with ferocious winds reaching up to 80mph. Authorities warn of possible building damage and falling trees, posing serious risks to life.
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for wind and rain from this evening until Thursday night. An amber wind warning kicks in between 6am and 5pm on Thursday, signalling the worst of the storm is yet to come.
Travel Chaos and Precautions
From midnight tonight, those in amber warning zones should avoid coastal, wooded, and open spaces. Travel only if essential and stay tuned to transport operators for disruptions—ferry, bus and rail services could be hit hard.
Notably, the Itchen Bridge will shut from 7pm today due to dangerous wind gusts. Reopening remains under constant review.
Extra highways crews are on standby to clear floodwater and debris, prioritising main routes and emergency service access. Follow road signs and monitor SCCHighways on X for real-time updates.
School Closures & Waste Collection Halt
School Crossing Patrols will be suspended Thursday, 2 November. Schools will communicate any closures via their usual channels. Check the schools closures page for updates.
High winds have forced suspension of all waste collections on Thursday. Don’t put bins out until further notice. Follow social channels for rescheduling info.
Flooding Risks & Safety Advice
Flood alerts remain active for southampton/" title="Southampton" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Southampton Water, Mansbridge, and Riverside Park with potential surface water flooding in low lying areas. Check current flood warnings and be prepared.
Monitor key routes including West Quay Road, Thomas Lewis Way, Mansbridge Road, Paynes Road, and Woodmill Lane. Report flooding or fallen trees via the local council website.
Stay Safe Outdoors & In Emergencies
Avoid parks, woodlands, coastal paths, and riversides during the storm. Secure or bring in garden furniture, trampolines, tents, and any loose items. Stay well clear of downed power or phone lines and do not attempt repairs until the storm subsides.
For urgent medical issues that aren’t life-threatening, call 111 or visit 111 online. Use hospital emergency departments only for critical emergencies.
Save key emergency numbers now: Electricity – 105, Water – 0330 303 0368, Gas – 0800 111 999. Vulnerable residents should register with utility Priority Services for extra support during outages.
