Storm Isha: Essex Highways warning issued to drivers

Essex Highways emergency crews are on standby and ready to respond to fallen trees and flooding reports on Sunday into Monday as the new storm is expected to bring disruption.

The Met Office has issued a serious wind weather warning across the UK - which is in force from 12pm on Sunday until 12pm on Monday - as the experts have described Storm Isha as "disruptive".

Forecasters have warned of injuries and danger to life, damage to buildings, disruption to transport services, road and bridge closures and power cuts.

Now, drivers have been warned by Essex County Council's Highways not to travel unless necessary.

An Essex Highways spokesman said: "With Storm Isha on its way this weekend, please only travel if necessary. Our emergency crews are on standby and ready to respond to fallen trees/flooding reports.

"You can report issues online or for urgent matters call our emergency number: bit.ly/EHtell-us."

What is Storm Isha?

Storm Isha - the ninth named storm of the season - approaches the UK on Sunday, in what the Met Office says will be a "widely windy day" for the UK.

Many places are likely to see gusts of up to 60mph, even inland. Coastal locations such as Southend and Canvey could see widespread gusts of up to 70mph - possibly reaching 80 mph in a few places.

A spokesperson for Energy Networks Association, which represents Britain's energy network operators, said: "Energy network operators are preparing to deal with any damage quickly and safely.

"With severe weather forecast, our advice to customers is to prepare, care and share. Prepare by going online to PowerCut105.com for advice and call 105 for free if you have a power cut. Check in with people who might need extra help, and share this information so friends and family know what to do too.

"If you see damaged power lines or lines brought down over the coming days, stay well clear and call 105 for free to report it, or dial 999 if there’s an immediate danger to life."