Be prepared, stay safe and protect property.

That’s the message from the Isle of Wight Council as the Island braces itself for further heavy rain and strong winds over the coming days, with potential for disruption to travel and services.

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for wind, valid on Thursday from 6am until 8pm, as Storm Ciaran moves in. It follows a yellow weather warning for wind and rain tomorrow (Wednesday).

With trees still in full leaf, and the ground already saturated, there’s high chance that there will be a lot of debris on the roads and a further risk of flooding.

#Stay informed 

Keep up to date with local weather updates from trusted sources such as the Met Office: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/uk-warnings#

Check for Environment Agency flood alerts, know your flood risk, and sign up to receive flood warnings: https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/

Advice about storms and gales can also be found on the council’s website: https://www.iow.gov.uk/keep-the-island-safe/severe-weather/storms-and-gales/

#Flooding

With rain expected to continue over the next few days, we are reminding residents to be prepared for flooding.

The council’s own Floodline advice and guidance number is (01983) 823111.

Flooding advice and sandbag information is available on our website: https://www.iow.gov.uk/keep-the-island-safe/severe-weather/flooding/

The Environment Agency provides help on flooding issues via its Floodline: 0345 988 1188 or text 0345 602 6340.

For evacuation because of severe flooding or damage, contact the police or dial 999.

For non-emergency calls relating to vulnerable older people, call adult services on (01983) 823340 or (01983) 821105 outside of office hours.

#Travel

With very strong winds of up to 80mph expected in coastal areas on the Island, there is a risk of damage to buildings and falling trees leading to a potential risk to life.

Therefore, people are advised to travel with care avoiding, as far as possible, coastal and wooded areas while winds are high.

People are also advised to check transport operator (rail, ferry and bus) websites and social media channels for any updates before travelling.

Do not drive through flooding, and observe road signs and closures.

#Avoid coastal areas

Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to high winds, heavy waves, and potential flooding during bad weather.

During the storm, please do not visit the coast, and avoid walking along beaches and cliffs.

#Secure loose items

Residents should secure loose items like bins, garden furniture and trampolines and parking cars in a garage, if available, or keeping them clear of buildings, trees, walls and fences.

#Fallen trees

For non emergency reports, visit: FixMyStreet (islandroads.com)

If a fallen tree or hazard is an immediate danger to life, call 999.

#Water, electricity and gas services

For any issues with electricity supply, see https://www.ssen.co.uk/power-cuts-emergencies/ or call 105.

For gas related issues, call 0800 111999 (National Gas Emergency Service).

To report a water leak, call Southern Water’s 24-hour leak line 0330 030 0146. For emergencies, call 0330 303 068. You can also visit: Southern Water: Water and wastewater services for the South East

#Public Health advice

The latest Public Health advice relating to flooding is available on the Government website: Flooding and health: advice for the public – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

#More ways to stay safe

You can join utility company registers for people who are vulnerable or have individual needs:

• Southern Water Priority Services Register: https://www.southernwater.co.uk/help-advice/join-our-priority-services-register
• Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Priority Services Register: https://www.ssen.co.uk/power-cuts-emergencies/priority-services/priority-services-registration-form/