Storm Dylan set to hit Northumberland with strong winds on New Year's Eve

A weather warning has been issued for Northumberland on New Year's Eve as Storm Dylan is predicted to batter the north of the country.
The yellow weather warning covers Northumberland on New Year's Eve.The yellow weather warning covers Northumberland on New Year's Eve.
The yellow weather warning covers Northumberland on New Year's Eve.

Between 2am and 3pm, the Met Office warns, some very strong winds are possible across Northern Ireland and then southern Scotland and the far north of England, including Northumberland, although the stronger winds are expected in the west.

It has issued a yellow warning for Northumberland and a more severe amber warning for parts of Northern Ireland and south-west Scotland, with gusts of up to 80mph predicted.

The extent of the amber weather warning on New Year's Eve.The extent of the amber weather warning on New Year's Eve.
The extent of the amber weather warning on New Year's Eve.
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A spokesman said: "There is a chance of damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, with the potential for injuries and danger to life from flying debris. Large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal areas could also be a hazard.

"Longer journey times or cancellations are possible as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected with the chance that some roads and bridges could close. Powers cuts may occur and other services, such as mobile phone coverage, may be affected."

Tim Price, rural affairs specialist at NFU Mutual insurance company, said: “Strong winds in rural areas can cause significant damage as farms and homes are situated on higher ground and less protected by other buildings. Rural areas can be prone to power cuts with lines brought down by high winds and fallen trees.”

NFU Mutual issued the following advice to prepare for the storm:

The extent of the amber weather warning on New Year's Eve.The extent of the amber weather warning on New Year's Eve.
The extent of the amber weather warning on New Year's Eve.
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At homeStay alert for Met Office Severe Weather warningsDon’t risk injury by attempting to clear snow from roofs or attempting emergency repairs while the storm is ragingPrepare for power cuts and make sure you have torches, batteries and that generators are readyPark your car in the garage if possibleSecure outdoor garden furnitureIn flood-prone areas, plan how you can move valuables upstairs or raise them from ground levelMake sure you have you insurer’s emergency helpline available

In the carPlan journeys carefully, check the weather forecast and only drive if necessaryCheck your tyres, as well as the levels of your engine oil, coolant and screenwasher fluid. Making sure your lights and battery are in good working order is also importantKeep a torch, blanket, warm clothing, sensible footwear, a bottle of water and a chocolate bar or two in the carMake sure your mobile telephone is fully charged, and tune into the radio to keep up to date about road conditionsCheck you have emergency breakdown cover and the contact details– this may be part of your insurance policy