A red weather warning has been issued for parts of Caerphilly County Borough from 7am tomorrow (Friday, February 18). But what does this mean?

What is a Red weather warning?

Red weather warnings are rare. The last time the Met Office issued a red warning was in November last year, but the last time before that was back in March 2018.

Frank Saunders, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, has warned Storm Eunice could be “one of the most impactful storms to affect southern and central parts of the UK for a few years”.

A red warning, which is the most severe warning the Met Office can issue, is issued when dangerous weather is expected and poses a risk to life.

Widespread damage to property and infrastructure, as well as disruption to travel and energy supplies are also expected during a red warning. People are urged to avoid travel where possible, due to the risk posed by falling trees and flying debris.

A red warning has been issued in much of south Wales, including parts of Caerphilly County Borough, as well as parts of south-western England.

What can we expect?

Wind speeds of up to 90mph are expected to hit the affected areas, with damage to buildings and homes also expected – with the potential for roofs to be blown off and power lines brought down, as well as uprooted trees.

There could also be power cuts, potentially affecting mobile phone coverage.

Network Rail has announced all rail services in Wales will be suspended on Friday, with disruption likely to continue into the weekend while more than 1,000 miles of track can be checked and cleared of debris and fallen trees.

Stagecoach South Wales has also announced it is cancelling all bus services on Friday morning, but will be resuming after 1.30pm.

Meanwhile, all schools in the borough will close for the day, with pupils returning to online learning.

Caerphilly County Borough Council has also confirmed all leisure centres, libraries and other council buildings will be closed to the public, while free school meal deliveries will be suspended and rearranged.

Bin collections are also cancelled on Friday, with the council set to release further details about catch-up collections.

However, social care services will continue where possible, but may be disrupted due to the storm.

What is the council doing?

Caerphilly County Borough Council has said it is “working around the clock to prepare for any impacts arising from the storm”.

The council has said it is working to ensure “appropriate levels of staff and resources are on hand to help keep the commmunity safe”.

Culverts and gullies are being cleared by council workers to make room for the additional rainfall expected, while workers will be on hand ready to offer sandbags and support in flood-prone areas.

The council has also said its countryside services team will be dealing with emergencies caused by falling trees.

Council leader Philippa Marsden said she wanted to “assure the whole community that we are prepared and ready to act”.

Cllr Marsden said the authority is taking a “safety first approach” and added: “Staff arrangements and resources are being strengthened to focus upon our emergency response.”

“I would urge everyone to take care, avoid any unnecessary journeys and keep an eye on vulnerable relatives or neighbours who may be affected by the adverse weather conditions.”

Meanwhile, First Minister Mark Drakeford said the Welsh Government is “working very closely with national agencies, local authorities and emergency services” to prepare for the storm.

Mr Drakeford attended a COBRA meeting earlier on Thursday about the storm and will be meeting with Welsh Government cabinet members this afternoon to discuss preparations.