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Amber weather alert: Strong winds expected in to the weekend

February 18, 2022

Storm Eunice may cause significant disruption due to extremely strong winds throughout day and into the weekend with the Met Office issuing an amber weather alert for the West Midlands.

What to expect:

  • There is a good chance that flying debris could result in a danger to life
  • Damage to buildings and homes is likely, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down
  • Roads, bridges and railway lines are likely to close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights
  • There is a good chance that power cuts, possibly prolonged, could occur and possibly affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
  • Large waves are likely and beach material is likely to be thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
  • It is likely there will be falling branches and some uprooted trees

This weather could increase the health risks to vulnerable patients and disrupt the delivery of services. Please refer to the Trust’s Severe weather plan.

All areas should have business continuity plans agreed with their staff. These should include:

  • Working with colleagues regarding their ability to report for work if transport systems are affected
  • Agreeing working arrangements for severe weather in advance, including potentially the need for staff to stay overnight

Colleagues are expected to make every reasonable effort to attend work (including using public transport when they wouldn’t normally) providing it is safe to do so.

  • If not able to reach their normal base, to attend an alternative base if that is easier to reach.
  • To work from home (if applicable and agreed with their manager)
  • Colleagues unable to attend work or work from home, to notify their managers ASAP and required to either take the day as annual leave or time in lieu (to be agreed locally).
  • Colleagues who are able to walk in but are not rostered to work may be asked to support their work area.  This is not mandatory and will be based on mutual agreement and rescheduling of work duties

Please ensure that all staff contact details are up to date and that you have a plan in place so that you are aware of any issues at departmental level.