Storm Henk: Strong winds with gusts of up to 70mph to hit West Berkshire

Strong winds with gusts of up to 70mph could hit West Berkshire today.

An amber warning for wind has now been issued by the Met Office, while a yellow warning for rain also remains in place.

Travel disruption and damage to power supplies is expected as Storm Henk batters the district for the next 10 hours.

The Met Office warning said there is a “good chance” of power cuts and other services, such as mobile phone coverage, could also be affected.

Longer journey times and cancellations to road, rail and air travel are also likely, it warned.

The warning has just come into place at 10am is runs until 8pm tonight, with winds likely to be strongest in the south during the afternoon and evening.

“Inland, gusts of 50-60 mph are more probable, but perhaps briefly 60-70 mph in one or two places,” the Met Office said.

People are being warned to take care as buildings could be damaged and flying debris, such as roof tiles, could lead to serious injuries.

“Stay indoors as much as possible,” the warning added. “If you do go out, try not to walk, or shelter, close to buildings and trees.

“In advance of high winds, check for loose items outside your home and secure them. Items include bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds and fences.

“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.”

It is expected that some areas will have seen up to 50mm of rain also fall by later tonight.