Amber weather warnings have been issued as Storm Isha approaches with Hitchin and surrounding areas likely to experience gusts of 50-60mph.

In what has already been a blustery day, Storm Isha has been gathering pace across Hitchin, with strong winds expected on Sunday evening. (January 21).

The cold Arctic air that had been dominating North Herts last week has subsided, replaced by an Atlantic influence which has brought a return to milder conditions - but will also deliver wet and windy weather across our area at the end of the weekend. 

Chief Meteorologist, Dan Suri, said: "Storm Isha will bring strong winds to the whole of the UK through Sunday and into Monday [and] we could see gusts frequently between 50-60mph.

"Storm Isha will bring a disruptive spell of weather...with strong winds. Heavy rain will cause additional hazards."

Travel warnings

Warnings highlight the possibility of travel disruption, power cuts and dangerous conditions [with] flying debris. 

A spokesperson for Energy Networks Association, which represents Britain's energy network operators, said: "An amber warning brings an increased risk of damage to homes and vital infrastructure. Energy network operators are preparing to deal with any damage quickly and safely.

"With severe weather forecast, our advice to customers is to prepare, care and share. 

"Prepare by going online to PowerCut105.com for advice and call 105 for free if you have a power cut. Check in with people who might need extra help, and share this information so friends and family know what to do too.

"If you see damaged power lines or lines brought down over the coming days, stay well clear and call 105 for free to report it, or dial 999 if there's an immediate danger to life."

More to follow...