Blackburn Easter weather - Met Office issues 18-hour warning

Easter bank holiday set to be washout for Blackburn as 18-hour warning issued <i>(Image: NQ)</i>
Easter bank holiday set to be washout for Blackburn as 18-hour warning issued (Image: NQ)
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The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for East Lancashire, this Easter bank holiday weekend.

The warning, for strong winds, is is place from 6pm on Saturday, April 4 until 12pm on Easter Sunday.

The 18-hour warning covers all parts of East Lancashire, including Blackburn with Darwen, Burnley, Ribble Valley, Hyndburn, Rossendale, and Pendle.

According to the Met Office, wind gusts of up to 70mph are predicted across some parts of the UK. Light rain has also been forecast for the majority of the weekend.

The Met Office has warned of power cuts and potential damage to buildings as well as potential travel disruption.

A Met Office spokesperson explained: "A rapidly deepening area of low pressure is likely to move northeastwards close to or across northwestern parts of the UK during Saturday evening and night, clearing to the North Sea by Sunday.

"Whilst there is some uncertainty over the exact track, intensity and shape of this area of low pressure, a period of strong west to southwesterly winds is expected during Saturday night and into the first part of Easter Sunday, before gradually easing through the day.

"Peak gusts of 50-60 mph will be possible fairly widely, with 60-70 mph in more exposed locations."

The forecast is for a period of strong winds expected to diminish gradually throughout Sunday.

The Met Office highlighted potential disruption, saying: "Some delays to road, rail, air, and ferry transport are likely with a chance of cancellations to some services.

"There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage.

"Delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges likely with a chance that some roads and bridges could close.

"There is a small chance that injuries could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties."

The Met Office advised residents to ensure loose objects around the home are secured, adding: "Prepare to protect your property and people from injury.

"Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences."

They further advised planning ahead for travel over the weekend, with a spokesperson saying: "Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

"People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items."

The Met Office also gave coastal safety advice, saying: "If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves.

"Even from the shore, large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead.

"In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."

The Met Office urges people to stay updated with the local weather forecast as warnings are subject to change.

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