Strong winds are expected

Prestonian’s are being warned to brace for a wet and windy getaway for Christmas.

The Met Office has issued a severe weather warning for Friday (23 December).

On what is expected to be one of the busiest periods on the M6 and surrounding road network gale force winds are due to sweep in.

Update: Storm warning now in force during Christmas Day

The weather warning for strong winds, part of Storm Barbara, is in force from 9am on Friday until 9am on Christmas Eve.

The chief forecaster states: “A spell of very strong south to southwesterly winds is expected to develop on Friday. Gusts of 60 to 70 mph are likely quite widely, with westerly winds gusting to 80 – 90 mph likely across parts of western and northern Scotland later on Friday and overnight into Saturday. Winds will then moderate on Saturday morning.

“Be aware of the potential for some structural damage – this more likely across the northwest of the warning area – as well as disruption to power supplies and travel, with restrictions on bridges and disruption to ferries.”