Newark warnings and closures announced ahead of Storm Eunice
The Met Office has issued an amber warning for wind across Newark and Sherwood today (Friday, February 18).
It warns that there is the chance of flying debris posing a risk to life, damage to buildings, road and rail closures, power cuts and falling trees.
As a result of the forecast high winds, several public spaces and visitors attractions will be closed tomorrow.
The warning is due to come into effect at 5am and remain in place until 9pm.
Residents are urged to plan ahead and take care when travelling.
Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue service has issued a reminder that residents should only call 999 for emergencies during the storm.
It has released a full guide to help residents know who they should call:
Fallen tree on a road endangering life — call 999
Fallen tree on a road not endangering life — call the local authority
Fallen tree on your own property not endangering life — personal responsibility
Unsafe structure overhanging a public road — call on 999
Unsafe structure on your own property endangering life — call on 999
Unsafe structure on your own property not endangering life — personal responsibility
Flood endangering life — call on 999
Flood affecting electricity supply — call 999 if you are not absolutely sure you can isolate it yourself safely.
Other flooding — personal responsibility
It is also advising people to stay indoors, limit travel, and secure garden furniture and similar items which can present a hazard in high winds.
East Midlands Ambulance Service has emphasised the risk of debris resulting in serious injury and risk to life if it comes into contact with people. It urges residents to take the severity of the storm seriously and avoid going outdoors unless it's absolutely necessary.
A number of attractions in and around Newark have issued warnings due to the high winds predicted.
Southwell Racecourse has cancelled its Free Friday Racenight, which was due to take place tonight, because of the forecast.
All those with tickets will be contacted by email.
Rufford Abbey Country Park has announced it will be closed, following the advice of Nottinghamshire County Council. It is expected to reopen at 10am tomorrow.
RSPB Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre and its car parks will be closed and it is advised that people do not walk in the forest in extremely windy conditions due to the risk of injury.
Sherwood Pines and Vicar Water Country Park will both be closed.
Other parks remain open but urge visitors to avoid walking near trees and to consider if their visit is necessary.
Newark Air Museum will also be closed.
Newark Market will not have stalls for the Friday market. A limited number of traders will trade from their vehicles.
White Post Farm will be closed.
Center Parcs holiday village will be closed.
Recycling Ollerton & Boughton have closed to all students and staff today due to the extreme weather conditions.
Residents are asked not to put their kerbside recycling boxes out today if it should've been their collection day.
The centre hopes to re-open on Monday.
Beaumond House Community Hospice Charity Shop in Newark is closed today due to Storm Eunice.
The charity's other shops in Southwell and Collingham will remain open for the time being, but may be subject to earlier closing times.
The storm is also expected to cause disruption to travel in the region.
LNER and EMR are encouraging rail users not to travel tomorrow, and to travel at the weekend instead.
Trained workers have been deployed by Network Rail at key locations along the East Midlands main line route to respond to issues quickly, as strong winds and heavy rain are expected to cause widespread disruption for the railway.
