The North East is bracing for a battering from Storm Lillian with predicted winds of up to 80mph on Friday.

The strong winds will move east across the North East tomorrow morning.

Forecasters have said there is "uncertainty" surrounding exact details but it is highly likely that "very strong winds" will develop.

The Met Office are predicting that the winds will affect major roads like the M6, A66 and A1(M) as well as potentially damaging buildings.

A yellow weather warning has been issued from 5:00 until 11:00 tomorrow.

What should you expect?

  • Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen
  • Injuries and danger to life from flying debris are possible
  • Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
  • Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
  • Some roads and bridges may close
  • Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible

A Met Office spokesperson said: "An area of strong winds associated with Storm Lilian is expected to move east across northern England during Friday morning.

"Whilst there remains some uncertainty about the details, some very strong winds are likely to develop, with gusts widely in the 50 to 60mph range, with a lower chance that a small core of winds gusting 65-75 mph, perhaps 80 mph, could push quickly east during the morning.

"These winds are likely to affect major routes such as the M6, A66 and A1(M), as well as potentially impacting infrastructure.

"As well as the strong winds, some locally heavy rainfall will add to the difficult travel conditions."