Extra engineers have been drafted in to help keep the lights on when predicted 70-80mph winds hit Preston tomorrow.

Electricity North West, the region’s power network operator, will be on standby along with British Red Cross to provide assistance for customers affected by the weather.

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Mark Williamson, operations director at Electricity North West, said: “We are closely monitoring the weather and we’re taking extra measures to get ready for Storm Doris in case severe gales hit our region.

“We work hard throughout the year maintaining and upgrading the network, but unfortunately overhead power lines can be damaged by flying debris in high winds.

Related: Met Office warn strong winds likely to damage structures this week

“We invest around £130m every year and actively manage and cut back around 400,000 trees near our lines every year, which does reduce the risk of outages, but we are still prepared and we are here 24 hours day seven days a week if you need any advice or information.”

The Met Office has issued an amber warning for wind and heavy rain which has now been extended from 6am until 8pm tomorrow.