Winds of up to 60mph are expected across Nottinghamshire as one of the worst storms in decades batters the UK.
Storm Eunice arrived on the south west coast from around 8am on Friday and quickly moved across the south, arriving in Nottinghamshire shortly after 11am.
The Met Office has an ‘amber’ weather warning – the second most severe – in place for the entire city and county throughout Friday.
Forecasters warned of ‘significant’ disruption, including a good chance flying debris could cause a risk to life.
“Damage to buildings and homes is likely, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down,” the Met Office warned.
“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, perhaps affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage.”
A red warning – the most severe – has been issued for areas further south including London, where people are being encouraged to stay at home.
Nottingham City Council closed all of the city’s parks as a precaution and East Midlands Railway asked passengers to avoid travelling.
Gary Walsh, East Midlands Route Director for Network Rail, said: “Running a railway through extreme weather is always a challenge.
“We have extra workers out on the network at key locations, ready to react quickly to Storm Eunice and repair the railway wherever it’s safe to do so.
“As the weather worsens I’d advise passengers to avoid travelling on Friday and, wherever possible, try to replan your journey when conditions improve.”
