A major incident has been declared as Storm Ciarán is set to hit Southampton tonight.

With strong winds of up to 80mph expected across coastal areas, there is a potential risk to life.

There is also the risk of damage to buildings, falling trees leading to disruption to travel, and an ongoing risk of flooding. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Local Resilience Forum has declared that their response will be escalated to ‘major incident’ status from midnight tonight.

All partner agencies are planning ahead with arrangements to respond to weather related emergencies during this period.

Those who live or work in what are likely to be the worst affected areas (as determined by the amber weather warning issued by the Met Office) are advised to travel with care.

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People are urged to avoid, as far as possible, coastal and wooded areas whilst winds are high.

People are advised to continually check the Met Office for updates, as well as transport operators before travelling.

Other sources of information and support

Emergency 999 calls

Please use the 999 emergency number only if there is an immediate risk to life. 

Flooding

Advice on how to prepare for flooding and updates relating to flood alerts for the area, can be found on The Environment Agency webpages.

For assistance in the event of flooding call 0345 988 1188 or text 0345 602 6340

Medical assistance

If you have an urgent medical problem and you are not sure what to do, visit 111 online.

Urgent Treatment Centres and pharmacies are equipped to deal with minor injuries, such as cuts or sprains.

Please only go to a hospital’s Emergency Department for life-threatening accidents and emergencies.

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Find details of pharmacies and Urgent Treatment Centres online.

You can also download the Healthier Together app for advice if you have children or carer responsibilities.

The app can help you decide whether you can self-care at home or if you need help, and which service is best for the needs of children aged up to 18.

It also provides advice and guidance for pregnant women.

Issues on roads

Extra highways crews are on standby to respond to the impact of Storm Ciarán and clear excess water and tree debris, prioritising main routes and routes to critical services.

To report a highways issue, visit hants.gov.uk or southampton.gov.uk

Public Health Advice

The latest Public Health advice relating to flooding is available on the Government website.

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Council services and facilities

For information about local services or facilities that may be affected by Storm Ciarán, including adult social care services, waste collections and libraries, please check your council webpages and look out for updates on their social media channels.

Water and electricity services

Refer to your water or energy supplier websites and social media for information about services that may be affected by the impact of Storm Ciarán.