Amber wind warning issued as storm sweeps in
PA MediaAn amber warning for wind has been issued for parts of Cumbria and the north-east of England as the region braces itself for Storm Boelo.
High winds are expected to batter north and west Cumbria, including Carlisle, Whitehaven and Alston and Northumberland, including Amble, Wooler and Seahouses.
The Met Office warning, in place for 24 hours from 21:00 BST on Saturday, means there is a chance of power cuts, damage to buildings and trees, disruption to rail, air and ferry services.
Some visitor attractions have said they would not be opening on Sunday due to the high winds forecast.
The Met Office said: "Very strong westerly winds associated with Storm Boelo are expected with fairly widespread gusts of 60 to 70 mph and gusts to 80 mph in exposed coastal areas."
A yellow warning for wind is also in place from 12:00 BST on Saturday, ending on Sunday evening across the whole of Cumbria and the North East, with the Met Office warning these may be accompanied by heavy rain.
Northern Powergrid said it was prepared for Storm Boelo and had moved to an increased level of readiness to minimise the risk of disruption.
This included extra engineers and support teams on standby, and the deployment of resources and equipment to the areas most likely to be affected.
The Gateshead FC match scheduled to take place at 19:45 BST against Tamworth FC has been postponed after heavy rainfall led to the playing area "becoming unplayable".
In a statement, the club said: "The fixture will be rearranged in due course."
A number of visitor attractions run by the National Trust have warned of closures on Sunday.
These include Gibside, Cragside, and Seaton Delaval Hall, which will also close at the earlier time of 14:00 BST on Saturday.
RNLI Redcar issued a warning for walkers in the area.
In a social media post, the rescue team said: "If you are walking along cliffs or our beaches and sea walls please take care.
"Stay away from crashing waves and if you think you see anyone in trouble in the water do not hesitate, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."
