Strong winds of up to 70mph will batter Dudley and the West Midlands today, with the Met Office issuing a yellow weather warning as residents face potential power cuts and travel disruption.
Forecasters predict inland areas including Dudley will experience gusts of 40-50mph, whilst coastal regions and exposed high ground could see winds reaching 60-70mph. The conditions pose risks of minor structural damage from loose tiles and temporary power outages across the region.
Travel chaos is expected, particularly for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes, with potential delays to road, rail, air and ferry services. The warning remains in effect from early morning until late afternoon.
The West Midlands joins other areas across England facing blustery conditions, though Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will also see unsettled weather with varying degrees of wind and rainfall.
Residents are urged to secure loose garden furniture, trampolines and bins to prevent damage or injury. Motorists should exercise extreme caution on exposed routes and check for debris on roads before travelling.
Despite temperatures remaining mild at 8-12°C, wind chill will make conditions feel considerably colder. The Met Office continues monitoring the situation and will provide updates as the weather system develops.