Following the Met Office’s severe weather warnings, BCP Council is urging people to prepare for Storm Ciarán which is set to hit Southern England tomorrow, Thursday 2 November.

Gusts up to 80mph and heavy rain are forecast along the coastline, with the storm likely to cause travel disruption on buses, trains, cars, ferries and flights. There will be a high risk of flooding in certain areas and tidal surges causing further disturbance across coastal routes.

In preparation residents are advised to secure any loose objects in gardens and driveways that may cause flying debris. Before travelling people should check weather reports regularly and avoid flooded routes and coastal roads. It would also be good to check in with elderly and vulnerable neighbours before Thursday to ensure they remain safe during the storm.

Cllr Vikki Slade, leader of BCP Council and portfolio holder for Dynamic Places which oversees emergency planning, said: “The extremely high winds and heavy rain predicted during Storm Ciarán is likely to bring disruption across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, so I urge all our residents to plan ahead so they’re ready for the storm.

“Small things such as fully charging phones and electronic devices and knowing where torches and spare batteries are in case of a power cut, can make all the difference.

“Our teams are on standby and fully prepared to respond to any issues the weather may bring, but I encourage everyone to stay safe during the storm.”

People in the Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch areas should log onto the BCP Council website to report any storm-related incidents.