80+ trees lost as Storm Arwen batters Wirral

As Storm Arwen slowly abates, Wirral is taking stock of damage caused to property and the loss of many trees. The Met Office has said that the strongest of winds have now passed, with the top lowland gust recorded at Brizlee Wood in Northumberland at 98mph.

A number of severe weather warnings are still in force across the UK. The Red and Amber weather warnings have now expired. The strongest gusts have now passed but the strong winds will move south wards across the UK through the day.

Chief meteorologist Steve Ramsdale, said, “Storm Arwen has delivered some dangerously strong winds overnight, with gusts in excess of 90mph recorded and sustained windspeeds of over 60mph.

“The strong winds will move south across the UK through the day, gradually weakening. Warnings are in still in force through the day and there has been widespread disruption so check and follow advice from local authorities before you head out.”

Storm Arwen will continue to move southwards and weaken before decaying across northern France later on Saturday. A new low centre has formed over the Netherlands helping maintain strong winds along east England overnight into Sunday before this too weakens.

Wirral Council and the emergency services have been working around the clock to clear fallen trees. You can report fallen trees on Wirral’s Streetscene’s emergency line: 0151 647 7810.

RNLI Hoylake has said, “Please take extra care if you’re at the coast – stay back, stay high, stay dry and don’t risk your life for a photo.”

Yesterday’s Tranmere game was called off sue to storm damage to the main stand. In a statement, the club said, “Damage from Storm Arwen has resulted in a small section of the main stand roof being blown off and a significant amount of roof signage and guttering has been blown down.

“The SAG have advised that it is not safe to proceed with the game until the roof has been properly inspected. Whilst this is a big disappointment, the safety of fans is of course everyone’s primary concern.

“A date for the rearranged fixture will be announced in due course.”

At Flaybrick Cemetery, at least six specimen trees, each over 100 years old, were lost. The gates have had to be locked, in order to prevent people entering, due to the danger of further trees falling.

In a statement, the Met office said, “In the UK Sunday will be a much more settled day, with many areas of England and Wales remaining dry and fine away from some coastal showers. Northern Ireland and Scotland however will see some further rain and perhaps snow, mostly for high ground.

“It will continue to feel cold with a northerly breeze and with clear skies overnight will lead to some very low minimum temperatures both Sunday and Monday mornings with temperatures below -10°C possible in areas with snow cover across Scotland and Northern England.”

Thanks to everyone for allowing the use of their images. Main Image: Vale Park, New Brighton. Credit: John Stephen Madden