Residents are being encouraged not to travel unless absolutely necessary tomorrow (Friday), as more severe weather arrives thanks to Storm Eunice.
The Met Office has issued a red weather warning – the highest level of alert - for some parts of the UK, with the possibility of 100mph winds, although Lancashire is expected to miss the worst of the gusts.
A red warning is the highest level of alert, with a ‘danger to life’ message. Storm Eunice may cause significant disruption due to extremely strong winds on Friday.
In the North West, there is a yellow warning for wind and snow between 7am and 6pm.
There will be a substantially reduced timetable on the West Coast Mainline too, with limited services and increased journey times due to speed restrictions. The advice is not to travel if you can, but if you have to, be aware of the amended timetable. Tickets for Friday travel are valid either today (Thursday), or Saturday if passengers wish to change their travel day.
Northern and TransPennine Express services are also affected. Again, you’re advised to check before you travel.
The storms bring the potential for disruption to travel as a result of wind-blown debris, and the risk of damage to property. People are also warned of the possible risk to themselves due to flying debris and to take particular care along the coast due to the likelihood of large waves.
Lancashire county council's highway teams are on standby to deal with whatever the weather brings, whether there's a need to remove downed trees, or close roads until hazards can be safely dealt with. The council's 45-strong frontline gritter fleet is also ready to treat the roads ahead of any wintry fronts, and highways staff will be keeping a close eye on the localised forecasts they receive as the weather picture develops.
People should report any urgent problems on the roads caused by the storms which do not require an emergency response to local police by calling 101, so they can pass any issues onto highway teams as necessary.
County Councillor Rob Bailey, lead member for highways and transport, said: "Our highways teams are well prepared to deal with all kinds of winter weather, and they're standing by to keep our roads moving in case they need to deal with fallen trees, or close roads in case damaged structures pose a risk to road users.
"I'd ask everyone to keep in touch with the latest advice from the Met Office, and particularly note the potential for dangers in exposed coastal areas with large waves expected as the storms approach from the Atlantic.
"As ever our gritting teams will be ready to treat the roads ahead of any wintry weather which Storm Eunice brings, however conditions could be particularly difficult in higher areas in the east of Lancashire and I'd ask people to be prepared and consider their travel plans on Friday morning."
You can find the latest advice from the Met Office at www.metoffice.gov.uk
Find more information and advice about travelling safely and keeping well over winter at www.lancashire.gov.uk/winter
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