Overview
- The Met Office red warning runs from 16:00 to 23:00 on Thursday 8 January for dangerously high winds that pose a risk to life.
- The Cabinet Office sent an alert to the Isles of Scilly at around 15:00, with a second due at about 17:00 for Cornwall.
- Alerts go to every compatible mobile phone in the warning zone with a loud siren and vibration lasting about 10 seconds even if devices are on silent.
- Forecasters expect building damage, flying debris, downed power lines, severe travel disruption and power cuts that could affect communications.
- The government says severe-weather plans are well rehearsed, with coordination underway with local authorities and emergency services.