THE weather warning for parts of south Wiltshire has been upgraded to red and schools in the county have been advised to close.

Wiltshire Council is urging people throughout the county to only make essential journeys today (Friday February 18) due to Storm Eunice.  

A red warning indicates a significant danger to life, as extremely strong winds provide the potential for damage to structures and flying debris.

For the rest of Wiltshire, there is an amber warning in place, which means there is the possibility of travel delays, road and rail closures, power cuts and the potential risk to life and property.

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A statement issued by the local authority said: "As there are two warnings in place, the council is advising everyone in Wiltshire not travel unless their journey is essential.

"All schools and early years settings in the county have been advised to close, and the council is working with its waste contractors regarding waste collections and household recycling centres.

"If people spot a tree down or another obstruction on the highway, please let the council know with MyWilts."

The council's libraries and Household Recycling Centres will remain closed today.

The red warnings for wind, according to the Met Office, are expected from 10am until 3.30pm.

Red warnings for wind are also in place for Fordingbridge, Ringwood and Verwood. 

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Yesterday, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Local Resilience Forum declared the storm as a major incident due to the potential for severe disruption.

The Met Office says to expect flying debris resulting in danger to life; damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down; roads, bridges and railway lines closed, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights; and power cuts affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage.

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